2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · RO09 EWM

The latest MOT test in June 2026 was a pass, with only minor advisories recorded: a rear exhaust leak and a child seat obstructing full inspection of the adult seatbelt. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, as the vehicle has consistently passed MOT tests since 2019, with advisories being largely minor and non-recurring. The absence of major defects or repeated failures suggests the vehicle has been reasonably well-maintained, though the advisories do highlight areas requiring attention. At 17 years old with 71,455 miles, the annual mileage averages around 4,200 miles, which is low for its age. This suggests the vehicle has seen light use or extended periods of inactivity. While low mileage can indicate reduced mechanical wear on consumables like brakes and suspension, it also raises concerns about degradation due to standing, such as corrosion, perished rubber components, and fluid deterioration over time. Prospective buyers should prioritise inspecting the exhaust system for the noted minor leak, as this can worsen over time, leading to increased noise, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential failure of the exhaust mountings or silencer. The child seat advisory, while not a mechanical issue, should be resolved by temporarily removing the seat to allow full inspection of the seatbelt and its anchorage points. Additionally, the historical advisories for tyre damage and cracking—particularly the heavily cracked tread noted in 2021—warrant a thorough check of all tyres for sidewall perishing, cracking, or uneven wear, as aged rubber can compromise grip and safety even if tread depth appears legal. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, particular attention should be paid to components prone to deterioration from standing. Inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion or pitting, and check for binding calipers, which can occur after prolonged inactivity. Test the 12V battery health, as older batteries may struggle with cranking power, especially in colder months. Verify the condition of suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers for signs of wear or fatigue, listening for clunks or knocks over rough surfaces. Finally, confirm that time-based servicing, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid changes, has been carried out, as these fluids degrade regardless of mileage.