2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · RO09 OTG

Recurring issues with tyre tread depth, lighting, and exhaust integrity define the mechanical profile of this Ford Fiesta, with the most recent test on 2 July 2024 resulting in a pass following a failure. The MOT history shows a pattern of consumables reaching critical limits, specifically regarding tyre wear and brake pad thickness, alongside several dangerous failures related to exposed tyre cords. While the 2024 pass cleared previous major and dangerous defects, the presence of a new advisory for a minor exhaust leak suggests a continuing trend of wear in the vehicle's peripheral systems. The vehicle has covered 94,777 miles over its 17-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 5,575 miles. This relatively low annual mileage suggests the car has been used for short-distance or infrequent trips rather than high-speed motorway commuting. Mechanically, such usage patterns can sometimes lead to more frequent issues with components that rely on regular operation to remain in optimal condition, which is reflected in the repeated advisories for worn tyres and lighting defects recorded across multiple testing cycles. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the tyre condition and the reported exhaust leak. The 2024 advisory notes the offside rear tyre is worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, which may indicate an alignment issue or uneven suspension loading. During a test drive, listen for any unusual droning or increased road noise from the tyres, and check for any vibration through the steering wheel or floorpan that could indicate uneven tread wear. The reported minor exhaust leak should be investigated; listen for any increased engine noise, raspiness, or a noticeable change in exhaust note when accelerating, as this could indicate a failing gasket or a hole in the exhaust manifold or pipework. The history of lighting and braking component failures necessitates a thorough inspection of the electrical and braking systems. Given the previous failures involving the offside front headlamp, stop lamp, and registration plate lamp, ensure all exterior lighting functions correctly without flickering. Furthermore, because the vehicle has previously failed on dangerous brake pad thickness and tyre cord exposure, the current state of the braking system must be verified. During the test drive, check for any pedal judder, pulling to one side under braking, or any unusual squealing sounds that could indicate the brake pads or discs are nearing the end of their service life.