2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · RO09 EXJ

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fiesta recorded a failure, with the vehicle failing on major defects related to lighting systems, brake disc condition, and excessive wear in the front suspension ball joints. This marks a deterioration from the previous clean PASSED result in December 2024, indicating a concerning trend where the suspension components—particularly the ball joints and coil springs—have repeatedly failed or been flagged as defective. The recurring advisories on the near-side front suspension arm ball joint and corroded coil springs suggest a pattern of progressive wear, likely exacerbated by either high-mileage usage or suboptimal maintenance. The lighting failures further compound the roadworthiness concerns, as they affect both safety and compliance with legal requirements. This history implies that the vehicle has either been subjected to significant stress over time or has been neglected in critical areas like suspension alignment and fluid maintenance. The recorded mileage of 110,604 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,506 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the consistency of the mileage suggests either steady, moderate use or periods of prolonged inactivity, which can lead to specific issues. Prolonged standing, for example, can accelerate corrosion in suspension components like coil springs and ball joints, as seen in the MOT history, while frequent use may accelerate wear on brake discs, tyres, and fluid degradation. The lack of a dramatic spike in mileage over recent years indicates that the vehicle has not been driven excessively hard, but the wear patterns suggest that the suspension and braking systems have been subjected to cumulative stress. Buyers should be mindful that the combination of high mileage and repeated suspension failures may indicate underlying structural or alignment issues that could worsen over time. Given the recurring advisories and failures in the suspension system, particularly the near-side front ball joints and coil springs, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of these components. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the front suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, which could indicate failing ball joints or loose suspension arms. Visually inspect the coil springs for any signs of bulging, cracking, or excessive sagging, and check for uneven wear on the tyres, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. The brake system should be inspected for signs of binding calipers, warped or grooved discs, or uneven pad wear, as the 2022 MOT noted significant wear on the inner face of the near-side front brake disc. Additionally, verify that the vehicle does not exhibit excessive pull to one side when braking or steering, which could signal alignment or suspension misalignment. Addressing the ball joint wear promptly is critical, as excessive play can lead to steering instability, reduced handling control, and accelerated tyre wear. If the ball joints are beyond their serviceable life, replacement is strongly recommended to prevent further damage to the suspension and steering components. For the lighting and registration plate lamp failures, immediate attention should be given to the headlamps, stop lamps, and side indicators. The dipped beam and dipped beam aim failures suggest that the headlamps may be worn out or improperly aligned, which could impair visibility and pose a risk to both the driver and other road users. Replace the faulty lamps or bulbs and recheck the aim settings to ensure compliance with legal standards. The registration plate lamp failure is a straightforward electrical issue that can be rectified with a replacement lamp or fuse. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should also consider the broader maintenance history. Given the age and mileage, the vehicle may benefit from a full service check, including fluid top-ups (brake, coolant, and transmission fluids), which can degrade over time even without significant mileage. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain and corrosion on terminals. Lastly, check the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, particularly given the previous MOT advisories on tyre damage. A comprehensive inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion is also advisable, as emissions-related issues could become problematic if not addressed.