2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · RO09 GHD

The most recent MOT test on this 2009 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 17 March 2026 and resulted in a Pass, although the same date also records a Fail that was almost certainly resolved before the vehicle left the test station. The failure was caused by an offside front headlamp aim that was too low, a rectification which is straightforward to carry out but should prompt the buyer to confirm that the adjustment was properly made and that the headlamp is not loose in its mounting. A minor advisory was also raised regarding a damaged windscreen that did not adversely affect the driver's view, a defect which should be monitored for any spread of cracking. Looking at the broader MOT history, the maintenance trend is clearly one of deteriorating condition rather than stable upkeep. Between March 2024 and March 2026 the vehicle accumulated multiple major failures relating to a leaking offside front brake caliper, excessively worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes on both sides, and a dangerous offside front tyre worn to its cords. These are not trivial concerns and indicate that significant mechanical wear has occurred in a relatively short timeframe. With 228,126 miles recorded on a vehicle that is approximately seventeen years old, this Fiesta has covered around 13,419 miles annually, which is high for a supermini of this vintage and well above the typical average. Such sustained mileage points to considerable wear across the engine, transmission, clutch, suspension, and braking components, all of which will have endured many more duty cycles than a lower mileage example. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than laid up for extended periods, which is positive for avoiding severe corrosion from standing but increases the likelihood of mechanical fatigue in wear-related items. Given the recurring brake and suspension defects, any prospective buyer should carry out a careful physical inspection and a thorough test drive. The earlier replacement of the offside front brake caliper must be verified, and the condition of the nearside front caliper should also be examined, as leaking calipers frequently affect both sides and lead to uneven braking, pulling to one side under deceleration, and possible fluid loss. Listen for any clonks, knocks, or rattling from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, as the worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes previously recorded suggest the rear beam assembly may have further deterioration; check for uneven rear tyre wear, which is a classic symptom of failing bushes. Inspect both rear coil springs for advanced corrosion, as advisories were raised on this in 2025, and look for signs of cracking or flaking metal. On test drive, pay particular attention to brake pedal feel, pulling under braking, and any grinding or scraping noises from the wheels which could indicate pad wear, disc corrosion, or sticking caliper pistons following caliper replacement. Beyond the documented defects, this high-mileage seventeen-year-old Fiesta requires a comprehensive age-related inspection. Check all four tyres closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and confirm that replacements are of consistent brand, size, and speed rating. Inspect the exhaust system along its full length for corrosion, paying particular attention to the rear section where a minor leak was previously noted, and listen for any blowing or ticking noises on the engine bay side of the system. Verify that the cambelt and water pump have been changed in line with Ford's recommended interval, as the original timing belt fitted at build will be well past its replacement schedule. Examine the engine bay for the previously recorded oil leak, checking the sump, cam cover, and oil filter housing for fresh seepage, and inspect the underbody for any fresh drips when the vehicle is warm. Finally, confirm that the 12V battery is in good condition with no slow cranking, that all fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil are up to date, and that the service book contains evidence of regular maintenance given the very high mileage this example has accumulated.