2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · SC09 UPD

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status following a successful test in February 2026. However, the maintenance trend shows a reactive pattern rather than preventative upkeep. The failure on 20 February 2026 at 97,803 miles revealed significant braking issues, including imbalanced brakes across both axles and a leaking offside rear brake valve. While the car passed the following day after immediate repairs, the frequency of braking failures suggests that mechanical components are only addressed once they reach a point of failure. The mileage profile is notably low for a seventeen-year-old Fiesta, averaging approximately 5,753 miles per year. There is a significant surge in usage between February 2024 at 45,678 miles and February 2025 at 70,570 miles, where the car covered nearly 25,000 miles in a single year. This burst of activity often accelerates wear on rubber-based components and seals, which aligns with the suspension ball joint play and front brake disc wear noted in the 2025 test. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system to ensure the recent repairs to the parking brake and axle balance are effective. The previous failure for a major exhaust leak in 2024 warrants a close check of the manifold and exhaust piping for corrosion or heat damage. Given the low mileage and age of the vehicle, the inspector should also look for perished rubber bushings and rust on the suspension arms, which are common in cars that sit for long periods between bursts of use.