2009 Honda Accord 2.0L Petrol · SL59 FFR

The 2009 Honda Accord has maintained a consistent, if slightly intensive, maintenance profile over the past several years, culminating in a pass at its most recent MOT in November 2025. While the vehicle successfully cleared its latest inspection, the history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories regarding tyre wear and minor oil leaks that suggest a need for vigilant oversight. The failure in November 2025 due to a dangerously worn tyre and a failed suspension ball joint indicates that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy, it is prone to reaching the limit of its component life before rectification. The overall trend is stable, but the persistent nature of the advisories implies that the car requires a proactive rather than reactive approach to maintenance to avoid future failures. With 155,715 miles accumulated over seventeen years, the vehicle averages approximately 9,160 miles annually, which is a moderate and consistent usage rate for a car of this age. This level of mileage suggests the vehicle has been used regularly rather than sitting idle for extended periods, which is generally beneficial for the health of seals, gaskets, and the battery. However, at this mileage, major mechanical components such as the suspension, steering rack, and drivetrain are well into their service life. Prospective buyers should expect that the high mileage will have resulted in natural fatigue across all rubber bushes, mounts, and hoses, necessitating a thorough inspection of the vehicle's service history to confirm that major items like timing chains or belts and fluid changes have been addressed in line with the manufacturer's high-mileage schedule. Regarding the specific advisories, the recurring mention of edge wear on tyres across multiple years is a significant indicator of potential suspension geometry issues or tracking misalignment. During your test drive, pay close attention to the steering feel; any pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds may indicate that the suspension bushes or tracking require immediate attention. The reported oil leak, while currently noted as not excessive, should be investigated by a qualified mechanic to determine if it originates from a simple rocker cover gasket or a more complex rear main seal or sump leak. When inspecting the vehicle, check the underside for fresh oil staining and ensure the engine bay is not being cleaned to mask evidence of fluid loss. Finally, the note regarding damage to the offside sill must be taken seriously, as structural integrity is paramount for MOT compliance and passenger safety. Inspect the sill thoroughly for signs of corrosion or deformation, as impact damage can compromise the protective coating and accelerate rust. The light misting on the nearside rear shock absorber is a common precursor to failure, so listen for any knocking or thumping sounds from the rear suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, verify the condition of the brake discs for surface corrosion or ridges, and confirm that the parking brake holds firmly on an incline, as these components often show signs of neglect in older, high-mileage examples.