2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · OV59 AVW

Recurring failures of critical safety components and persistent chassis wear define the mechanical history of this vehicle. While it achieved a pass on 2025-05-19, this followed a failure involving dangerous brake pad wear to metal and worn suspension ball joints. The current status remains precarious due to several outstanding advisories concerning play in the steering rack inner joints, a perished central front lower gearbox mounting, and an oil leak, suggesting a trend of deteriorating structural and mechanical components. The recorded mileage of 137,578 miles is typical for a seventeen year old vehicle, averaging roughly 8,093 miles per year. This level of usage indicates a standard rate of wear on the engine, drivetrain, and suspension systems. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, but the frequency of failures related to braking and suspension indicates that these systems are reaching the end of their natural service life. Inspection should focus heavily on the steering and drivetrain mountings. During a test drive, listen for knocks or clicks when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which would indicate the recorded play in the steering rack inner joints. Pay close attention to vibrations or thumping sensations during gear transitions or acceleration, as these are symptoms of the perished gearbox mounting bushes noted in the records. The presence of an oil leak should be verified by inspecting the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle. Further attention is required for the chassis and exhaust system. The history shows a long-term pattern of corrosion affecting all four coil springs and the rear exhaust silencer, which was recorded as delaminated and corroded in the latest test. Check for excessive bouncing or uneven ride height that could signal failing springs. Additionally, listen for an increased exhaust note or rattling from the rear, and verify that the braking system feels firm and consistent, given the previous history of binding calipers and severe pad wear.