2009 Suzuki Swift 1.5L Petrol · NG09 CDY

The most recent MOT recorded on 8 June 2026 shows a mixed result – the vehicle was issued a pass with an advisory concerning a corroded fuel pipe, but a concurrent failure was logged for a near‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint dust‑cover that no longer prevents dirt ingress and an off‑side stop‑lamp that was not functioning. The presence of a failure for major safety items alongside an advisory pass indicates that the car has not yet achieved a stable compliance position and that remedial work is still required to bring it back to full roadworthiness. Over the preceding three years the pattern has been erratic, moving from clean passes in 2025 and 2022 to a series of serious safety failures in 2024 (worn front brake discs, multiple tyre tears and dangerous tyre damage) and recurring corrosion advisories, suggesting a worsening trend rather than an improvement. At 59 563 miles the Swift averages roughly 3 500 miles per annum, which is considerably below the typical usage for a 2009 model. Such low mileage often points to periods of infrequent use or extended storage, which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, battery cells and corrosion‑prone metal parts despite the modest wear on moving parts. The mileage figure does not mask the fact that the vehicle has accrued enough distance for normal wear of brake discs and tyres, but the low annual run‑off may have contributed to the tyre perishing and coil‑spring corrosion noted in the MOT records. A prospective buyer should give immediate attention to the fuel pipe, which has been flagged as corroded on two consecutive MOTs. Inspect the pipe for any signs of cracking, wet spots or fuel odour, and be prepared to replace the entire line and associated clamps, as a failure could lead to a fire hazard. The front suspension arm ball‑joint dust‑cover should be examined for rust and gaps that allow grit to enter the joint; any play in the steering rack or a clunk when negotiating bumps would indicate that the ball joint itself may be compromised and require replacement. The off‑side stop‑lamp must be fitted and functional, and all exterior lighting should be checked for wiring corrosion. Brake discs that were recorded as “significantly and obviously worn” in 2024 should be measured for thickness; if they are below the minimum safe limit they must be turned or replaced, and the brake pads inspected for uneven wear or glazing. The tyre damage noted in 2024 – tears on both front tyres and the near‑side rear – means the current set must be replaced; even if the tyres have been fitted with new tread, the sidewall cracks suggest perishing due to age, and the driver should listen for vibration or bulging during a test drive, which would betray hidden structural weakness. Beyond the specific defects, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough age‑related inspection. Verify the condition of all four coil springs, as multiple advisories for corrosion could indicate loss of spring integrity and potential ride‑height changes or noisy suspension operation. Check the 12 V battery for sulphation and capacity loss, especially if the car has sat idle for long periods; a load test is advisable. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and signs of water ingress, and consider a complete fluid change if the service history is incomplete. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any recorded replacement of major wear items; the absence of such records combined with the MOT history suggests that the car may need a comprehensive mechanical overhaul before it can be regarded as a reliable purchase.