2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · ND59 VBZ

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that appears to be worsening as it ages. While the most recent test on 8 January 2026 at 86,077 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged recurring fluid leaks, specifically an oil leak and a rear fluid leak described as engine damp fuel. The history shows a persistent pattern of neglect regarding basic consumables and lighting, evidenced by the 8 January 2026 failure for non-functional dipped beam headlamps and rear stop lamps. This follows a December 2024 failure where the vehicle was found with exposed tyre cords on both front tyres and an ineffective windscreen wiper, suggesting that essential maintenance is often deferred until a test failure occurs. The mileage profile is notably low for a 2009 vehicle, averaging approximately 5,063 miles per year to reach 86,077 miles by early 2026. This low usage pattern is consistent with the gaps between tests, such as the period between October 2022 and November 2023. However, low annual mileage can sometimes mask issues related to age-related degradation, such as perished rubber components or fluid stagnation. The record shows the vehicle has transitioned from a relatively clean history in 2016 and 2017 to more frequent and serious mechanical failures in recent years. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity and fuel system. The December 2023 test revealed a significant structural risk, with the nearside rear suspension component mounting area showing excessive corrosion that reduced the strength of the outer sill. Furthermore, the December 2023 failure regarding a missing rear exhaust system and the December 2024 report of a possible fuel leak in the engine bay indicate potential issues with the exhaust and fuel delivery systems. The suspension and drivetrain also require close scrutiny. The record shows a long-term history of wear in the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, dating back to November 2020, and sub-frame bush wear noted in 2018. Given the recent reports of oil and fuel-related leaks, a physical inspection of the engine bay and underbody is essential to determine if these leaks are merely seeping or if they represent a more significant mechanical failure. The recurring nature of these faults suggests that while the car is currently roadworthy, it has required increasing levels of intervention to remain compliant.