2009 KIA Picanto 1.0L Petrol · WG09 CXF

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding structural and mechanical degradation. While it passed the most recent test in October 2025 at 51,541 miles, the tester identified new faults including a deteriorated nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover and play in the offside front lower subframe ball joint. These issues follow a pattern of increasing corrosion and mechanical wear that suggests the components are reaching the end of their service life despite the low annual mileage. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 51,541 is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 3,032 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with the vehicle sitting for extended periods, which explains the persistent issues with brake components and seals. The data shows a consistent gap between the October 2022 test at 44,852 miles and the 2023 test at 47,712 miles, indicating the car does not see frequent road use to keep components clear or to prevent de-lubrication and age-related decay. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the subframe. The 2025 record flagged corrosion on the rear vehicle structure which, while rigidity is not yet compromised, represents a critical failure point for a car of this age. The recurring reports of corroded rear brake pipes noted in 2023 and 2024 indicate that the previous owner likely used grease to mask rust rather than treating the underlying oxidation, which can lead to sudden failure of hydraulic lines. The engine bay shows a persistent oil leak that appeared in every test since 2023. While the tester classified this as not excessive, its longevity suggests a seal failure that remains never addressed. The pitted and scored front brake discs noted in 2024 suggest the vehicle has been stationary long enough for surface corrosion to take hold. Before purchase, the buyer should verify that the ball joints and dust covers identified in the 2025 test have been replaced to prevent immediate MOT failure in the near future.