2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · RO09 EYP

The most recent MOT inspection on 5 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows persistent, recurring issues rather than a clear improvement. While the major failure regarding the offside front tyre in 2024 was rectified, the vehicle continues to accumulate advisories for structural and safety components. Specifically, there is a recurring pattern of seat belt webbing damage and wheel distortion that has appeared across multiple years. The presence of these repeated advisories suggests that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy to meet minimum legal standards, certain non-critical defects are being allowed to persist, which may indicate a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 66,234 over approximately 17 years, this Ford Fiesta has averaged roughly 3,896 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has seen very light usage or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it presents specific mechanical risks associated with long-term standing. Low usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components, the thickening of fluids, and the buildup of corrosion on braking surfaces. The low annual mileage means the vehicle has not been subjected to the regular heat cycles and mechanical scrubbing that help prevent moisture accumulation and component seizure. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the recurring advisories regarding the road wheels and tyres. The nearside front wheel has been noted as slightly distorted for several years, and the most recent test flagged damage to the outer wall of the nearside front tyre. During a test drive, you should listen for any rhythmic thumping, vibration through the steering wheel, or uneven tyre wear, which could indicate that the wheel distortion is affecting the vehicle's tracking or causing a lateral runout. Furthermore, the repeated advisories for damaged seat belt webbing in the rear are a safety concern; you must physically inspect these belts for fraying or cuts, as they may fail to restrain occupants correctly in an accident. Given the low mileage and age, a thorough physical inspection is essential to mitigate risks associated with infrequent use. Check the tyres thoroughly for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Examine the underside of the vehicle for signs of corrosion on the exhaust system and suspension components, particularly the coil springs which have previously been flagged for corrosion. You should also check for binding calipers or heavily corroded brake discs, which are common in vehicles that sit idle. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and coolant replacements, has been performed according to the calendar rather than just the odometer, as fluids degrade chemically even when the car is not being driven.