2009 Ford Fusion 1.4L Petrol · ST09 LVM

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fusion took place on 2026-02-20, resulting in a passing grade, though this was preceded by a failed inspection in February 2026, which highlighted critical issues that necessitated repair. The pattern of MOT results over the past three years reveals a concerning trend of recurring major and advisory defects, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. While there were periods of clean MOT results, such as in February 2024, the vehicle’s history is dominated by persistent corrosion-related failures in the lower suspension mountings and brake pipe corrosion, indicating a failure to address underlying structural and mechanical degradation promptly. The advisories regarding brake imbalance, handbrake functionality, and oil leaks further underscore ongoing wear and potential long-term risks to roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 132,663 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,804 miles, which is within the expected range for its age and typical UK driving conditions. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage accumulation suggests either lighter usage or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues such as corrosion and fluid degradation. Prolonged standing increases the risk of brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, and fluid contamination from condensation, while reduced mileage may mask wear progression in consumables like tyres and suspension components. The vehicle’s history does not show rapid mileage accumulation, but the combination of age and consistent advisories implies that wear has been gradual yet persistent, particularly in high-stress areas like the suspension and braking systems. Given the recurring MOT advisories and major failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the lower suspension mountings for signs of further corrosion or structural compromise, as the 2025 and 2026 failures indicate severe degradation. During a test drive, listen for excessive clunking or rattling in the rear suspension, particularly when transitioning between bumps or corners, which may signal loose or failing suspension components. Inspect the brake system for uneven wear patterns on the tyres, which could indicate misalignment or brake pipe issues, and check for any signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the rear wheels and coolant reservoir. The handbrake’s inefficiency—marked as a 17% pass—should be addressed immediately, as a poorly functioning handbrake poses a safety risk, especially on inclines. The brake pipes, which have repeatedly failed MOT due to corrosion and grease accumulation, are a critical concern. Corroded brake pipes can lead to reduced braking efficiency, fluid leaks, or even catastrophic failure under stress. The buyer should visually inspect the brake pipes for cracks, bulges, or excessive grease buildup, and ensure they are securely fitted. If any corrosion is found, replacement may be necessary to prevent future failures. Additionally, the oil leaks and coolant leaks recorded in previous MOTs suggest that the vehicle’s fluid systems require attention. Check for any signs of oil or coolant under the vehicle, and have the cooling system and oil levels verified, as fluid degradation over time can compromise engine and transmission longevity. For tyres, despite the advisories of wear close to legal limits, the buyer should verify sidewall condition for cracking or perishing, which can become critical with age, even at moderate mileage. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive inspection of the engine bay, exhaust system, and electrical components—such as the headlamps and fog lamps—should be prioritised to ensure all systems are functioning safely and efficiently.