2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · NU09 NUM

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2009 Ford Fiesta, conducted in February 2024, resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. However, looking at the preceding twelve months, the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of reactive rather than preventative upkeep. The failure in early 2024 for a fractured offside front coil spring, a worn nearside front ball joint, and a binding nearside front brake indicates that several critical suspension and braking components reached the end of their service life simultaneously. While the latest pass suggests these specific issues have been rectified, the history of failures regarding lighting, wiper blades, and tyre sizing suggests a pattern of addressing faults only when they trigger an MOT failure. With a recorded mileage of 97,756 over approximately seventeen years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 5,750 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the car has been used for short, infrequent journeys or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage can imply less wear on the engine and gearbox, it often introduces different mechanical risks. Long periods of standing can lead to the degradation of rubber components, the settling of contaminants in the fuel system, and the development of seized or binding brake calipers due to moisture and lack of use. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the historical advisories regarding corrosion and fluid leaks. The 2020 records noted corrosion on the fuel pipes, rear coil springs, and the front subframe, alongside a non-excessive oil leak. Although these did not cause a failure at that time, corrosion is a progressive issue that can compromise structural integrity if left unchecked. During a test drive, listen closely for any dull thuds or clunks from the suspension, which could indicate that the previously replaced ball joints or springs are not the only worn components, or that the subframe corrosion is affecting ride quality. You should also inspect the engine bay for fresh signs of oil weeping or dampness around gaskets to ensure the previously noted leak has not worsened. Given the low annual mileage, a thorough physical inspection of the consumables is essential. Check the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which occurs due to age and UV exposure rather than tread wear. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can result from infrequent use, and ensure the pedal feel is firm without any pulsation that might indicate warped discs. It is also advisable to verify the service history for evidence of calendar-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, as these are critical for low-usage vehicles where fluid degradation occurs due to time rather than distance. Finally, check the battery health and the condition of the drive belts, as these components can perish or lose efficacy during long periods of inactivity.