2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · VE59 LWH

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 13 November 2025 and resulted in a pass, with no defects or advisories recorded by the examiner. Reviewing the broader test history, the vehicle has demonstrated a consistent and stable maintenance trend, having passed each annual assessment cleanly since at least 2022, with the only blemish being a prior failure on 15 November 2022 that unfortunately lacks recorded defect data. The absence of any advisory notes across four consecutive passes is a positive indicator that the previous keeper addressed items promptly, or that the Fiesta has simply not developed wear-related issues within MOT thresholds. However, it is worth noting that a completely clean advisory record on a 17-year-old car is somewhat unusual, so a prospective buyer should remain attentive to the possibility that minor issues were either repaired just before test or may be developing just below the failure threshold. With 88,062 miles recorded against a 2009 registration, this Fiesta has averaged approximately 5,180 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of its vintage. This low annual usage figure strongly suggests periods of standing or only occasional use, which carries its own set of mechanical considerations distinct from high-mileage wear. Rubber components, fluids, and certain drivetrain elements degrade with calendar age regardless of distance covered, and the relatively sparse usage pattern means items such as brake discs may exhibit surface corrosion from infrequent operation, while seals and hoses can become brittle through lack of regular thermal cycling. It would be prudent to ascertain whether the recorded mileage is consistent over time or whether there are significant gaps, as long storage periods can accelerate certain forms of degradation. Given the clean MOT record and the low-mileage profile, the most valuable inspection steps for a prospective buyer centre on age-related deterioration rather than wear-based concerns. Tyres warrant close scrutiny for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds harden and become unsafe with age even when tread depth remains adequate; the production date code on the sidewall should be checked to ensure the tyres are not themselves approaching a decade in service. Brake discs should be examined for severe corrosion pitting, particularly around the outer edges and hub face, and calipers should be checked for seizing or binding pistons resulting from infrequent use, which can cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries typically fail after five to seven years regardless of mileage, and a flat or weak battery is the most common cause of non-start issues in low-use vehicles. Fluid condition and service history are equally important given the calendar age of this Fiesta. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two years irrespective of mileage, so any documented renewal date should be verified. Coolant, engine oil, and gearbox oil all degrade through time and contamination, and inspecting for discolouration, emulsification, or the presence of sludge on the oil cap can reveal whether the vehicle has been regularly serviced. On the test drive, listen carefully for any suspension clonks or knocks over speed bumps, which may indicate perished bushes or worn shock absorbers, and pay attention to clutch operation, as a seized or partially seized clutch from disuse can mimic a more serious mechanical fault. Finally, ensure the timing belt and water pump replacement interval has been observed, as on a 2009 Fiesta this is a critical age-related service item regardless of how few miles have been covered.