2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · OY09 VBV

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2024-10-29, resulted in a pass, with two advisories noted: a nearside rear wheel bearing exhibiting slight noise, and an out-of-service outer sill showing significant corrosion. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past five years, with only minor advisories recorded in each test, suggesting a generally stable maintenance record. The absence of repeated failures or major defects indicates that while the vehicle has encountered some wear-related issues—particularly in suspension, tyres, and brakes—these have been managed without compromising roadworthiness. The earlier failure in 2018, which included an exhaust emissions exceedance, was the only instance of a major defect, but this was rectified prior to the latest test, reinforcing the vehicle’s overall reliability in terms of road safety. The recorded mileage of 90,713 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,336 miles per year. Such low mileage is atypical for a car of this age, which typically accumulates closer to 10,000–15,000 miles annually under normal conditions. The disparity between expected and actual mileage may imply periods of prolonged inactivity, potentially leading to secondary issues such as standing corrosion, particularly in the outer sills and brake components. Low-mileage vehicles can also experience accelerated wear in certain areas due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements, such as tyre perishing from age-related degradation or fluid degradation in systems like the cooling and braking circuits, even if the vehicle hasn’t been driven extensively. The suspension advisories from previous MOTs, including worn or perished bushes and play in the steering rack, may also warrant closer inspection, as these can degrade further with time rather than mileage alone. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and potential for progressive wear. Focus on the front and rear suspension arms for signs of excessive play or binding, particularly around the steering rack inner joint and wheel bearings, as these can lead to steering instability or uneven tyre wear. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. The brake system should be thoroughly examined for corrosion on the brake pipes, which the DVSA advisories suggest is a persistent issue. Check for uneven brake disc wear, binding calipers, or a spongy pedal feel, as these could indicate underlying problems. Additionally, verify that the brake discs are free of pitting or scoring, which can compromise braking performance and safety. In terms of broader physical checks, the vehicle’s tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely in a low-mileage car due to age-related degradation rather than wear from driving. Ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements and that there is no evidence of uneven wear patterns, which could signal suspension or alignment issues. The outer sills and underbody should be examined for rust progression, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust components, as the previous advisories suggest ongoing corrosion concerns. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for strength, as low-mileage cars can suffer from battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged idling. Finally, check the fluid levels in the cooling system, brake fluid reservoir, and power steering reservoir, ensuring they are topped up to manufacturer specifications. Since the vehicle has not undergone a comprehensive service in recent years, consider scheduling a full mechanical inspection, including the timing belt (if applicable), clutch and gearbox condition, and fluid refreshes for the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these are critical for long-term reliability.