2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · ST09 MPE

A 2009 Ford Fiesta with this MOT profile presents a somewhat puzzling mechanical picture, primarily because the failures and subsequent passes have all been recorded without any defects being entered against the vehicle. The most recent test on 8 April 2026 resulted in a fail, yet no advisory items or specific reasons for refusal were documented on the record, and this follows an identical pattern from April 2025, when the car failed on the 1st and then passed on the 3rd with no recorded defects. Likewise, in March 2024 the same scenario unfolded, with a fail on the 14th followed by a pass on the 18th, again with nothing logged. The repeated nature of these immediate retest passings strongly suggests the failures relate to easily rectified items such as bulb replacements, tyre condition, or minor brake adjustments which were remedied before the retest, rather than indicating any structural, corrosion-related, or major mechanical deterioration. At 74,232 miles over approximately seventeen years, the Fiesta has averaged around 4,367 miles per year, which is well below the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age and class. Such low usage can be a mixed signal: it often points to a car that has been used predominantly for short urban trips rather than long motorway journeys, which can place additional strain on components like the battery, exhaust system, and brake discs due to limited drying-out time and insufficient operating temperatures. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would indicate the vehicle was off the road for extended periods, and the steady accumulation of mileage between tests suggests continuous but light use. Mechanically, this profile means consumables such as brake pads, discs, and tyres may have aged more from environmental exposure and standing time than from heavy use, and rubber components like suspension bushes, CV boot gaiters, and engine drive belts deserve particular scrutiny. Given the absence of recorded advisories, any prospective buyer should approach this Fiesta on the understanding that the historical MOT record provides only a binary pass or fail outcome, with no insight into emerging wear. A thorough physical inspection is therefore essential, with particular attention to the areas commonly affected on a Fiesta of this vintage. The rear axle beam and its mounting points are a known concern on this model, so the underside should be examined for any cracking, corrosion, or distortion around the trailing arm mounts and the spring seats. The front suspension, including the wishbone bushes, drop links, and strut top mountings, should be checked for perishing or splitting, and any knocking or clonking noises over uneven surfaces during a test drive would warrant further investigation. Brake feel should be assessed for any pulling to one side, a spongy pedal, or vibration under heavy braking, which could indicate corroded or warped discs given the likely prolonged standing periods. Under the bonnet, the Fiesta should be examined for oil leaks from the cam cover gasket and any signs of coolant loss from the thermostat housing or radiator, both of which are well-documented ageing issues on the 1.25 and 1.4 Duratec engines fitted to this generation. The exhaust system, including the rear silencer and flexi joint, should be inspected for corrosion given the low-mileage, short-trip usage pattern, and a cold start will reveal any excessive smoke or rough running that might suggest deeper engine management issues. Finally, ensure that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after ignition, the clutch operates smoothly without slipping or juddering, and the steering remains precise without any vagueness or knocking through the rack, as these subjective checks are particularly important when the MOT history offers no specific advisories to guide your attention.