2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · SC09 YPV

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-05 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive shift in the vehicle’s roadworthiness status following a series of failures in 2024 and 2025. While the 2025 test included both major defects—particularly the severe wear on the offside rear anti-roll bar ball joint and non-functional lamps—and an advisory regarding near-side front suspension arm ball joint play, the 2024 failures were catastrophic, with exposed tyre cords indicating imminent failure. The absence of such issues in the latest test suggests either corrective maintenance has been undertaken or the underlying wear patterns have stabilised, though the 2025 advisory on the front suspension arm ball joint remains a critical concern. The overall trend, while not entirely stable, shows a significant improvement since the worst failures, but vigilance is required to address the persistent suspension and lamp-related concerns. The recorded mileage of 118,108 miles for a 2009 Fiesta represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,948 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a car that has been driven regularly but not excessively, avoiding the extremes of either underutilised standing or high-stress, high-mileage wear. However, the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the 18-month interval between the 2024 failures and the 2025 test—could indicate periods of low or no use, which may have allowed certain components, such as brakes or fluids, to degrade further without regular service. The suspension and ball joint wear patterns suggest that prolonged idleness could exacerbate joint play and bush wear, while the tyre failures in 2024 highlight the importance of consistent tyre rotation and monitoring for signs of uneven wear or cord exposure. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent actions should focus on the suspension and lamp defects observed in the MOT history. The near-side front suspension arm ball joint advisory, with slight play detected, indicates potential long-term instability in the steering geometry and potential for excessive wheel camber or toe-in over time. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could signal misalignment. The offside rear anti-roll bar ball joint failure in 2025 is particularly critical, as excessive wear here can lead to body roll during braking or cornering, compromising ride control and handling. Inspect the rear suspension for excessive sag or binding in the strut mounts, and watch for a loss of stability when braking sharply or turning sharply. If possible, have the ball joints and suspension arms professionally inspected, as replacement may be necessary before further wear compromises steering or safety. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a comprehensive physical inspection to address potential age-related and usage-related wear. Given the 17-year age and 118,108 miles, the tyres should be thoroughly examined for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate tread depth if the rubber has degraded from age. Check for consistent tread depth across all four tyres and look for any areas of uneven wear, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The brakes should be inspected for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly on the near-side front where standing corrosion is common in older vehicles. Listen for a grinding noise during braking, which could signal worn brake pads or damaged discs, and check for excessive brake dust buildup or a spongy pedal feel, which may indicate fluid degradation or warped discs. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles often struggle with starting or electrical system failures due to battery degradation. Finally, verify that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can lead to system failures. If service records are available, ensure that the last scheduled fluid changes were performed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, which for many Fiestas may be every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or annually, depending on usage.