2009 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC09 FEK

The most recent MOT on 13 August 2026 was passed, although it carried a series of advisories covering corrosion of the rear sub‑frame, front brake hoses, front brake pipe and a developing crack on the off‑side rear tyre. The preceding test on 12 August 2026 recorded a failure for the same items, indicating that the vehicle has moved from a failing status to a passable one within a single testing window. Earlier records show a pattern of recurring corrosion‑related advisories and, in 2024, several major failures involving front brake disc wear, structural deformation of the off‑side rear integral body, and severe corrosion around the near‑side front jacking point. The shift from those serious defects to a pass suggests that remedial work has been undertaken, but the persistence of corrosion advisories signals that the underlying issue has not been fully resolved and the maintenance trend remains borderline, requiring close monitoring. At 103,241 miles on a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,000 mi per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There is no evidence of a high‑speed accumulation phase that would have accelerated wear on the drivetrain or suspension, nor are there obvious gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity beyond normal seasonal storage. The moderate mileage aligns with the observed wear patterns – the brake hoses and pipe show only slight corrosion, and the tyre perishing is limited to a single tyre – but it also means that many components are now approaching the age‑related thresholds where calendar wear becomes a dominant factor. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the rear sub‑frame and any visible rust on the chassis, especially around the near‑side front jacking point and the near‑side rear integral structure that were flagged for structural weakness in 2024. Look for flaking, bubbling or pitting that could indicate that the metal has thinned beyond safe limits; a gentle tap with a rubber mallet should reveal any hollow or delaminated sections by a dull thud. On a test drive, listen for clunks or rattles when braking, accelerating or negotiating bumps, as these can betray a compromised sub‑frame or loose mounting points. Verify that the previous structural repairs have been carried out with appropriate welding or reinforcement and that there is no residual distortion affecting wheel alignment. The brake system requires a thorough visual and functional check. Examine all four brake hoses for any signs of external corrosion, cracking or swelling at the ferrules, and ensure the front brake pipe is free of grease or corrosion deposits that could restrict hydraulic flow. The front brake discs should be measured for remaining thickness; given the 2024 major disc wear, it is prudent to confirm that they have been resurfaced or replaced and that the pads are not excessively worn. The off‑side rear tyre, noted as perishing, should be replaced immediately, and the remaining tyres inspected for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could indicate suspension or alignment issues. Finally, assess the 12‑volt battery’s age and charge capacity, check that all engine fluids have been changed within the recommended intervals, and confirm that the service book records regular oil, coolant and filter changes – all of which become increasingly important as the vehicle approaches the two‑decade mark.