2009 Suzuki Swift 1.5L Petrol · WN59 AOK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 January 2026, was a pass, albeit with an advisory noting that the off‑side front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and that the outer track‑rod‑end dust cover shows some deterioration. Compared with the preceding three years, the pattern shows a clear improvement: earlier tests in 2024 and early 2025 recorded multiple major failures – notably a faulty parking‑brake, a SRS warning lamp fault, and a severely corroded front brake pipe – while the latest test indicates those critical items have been rectified and only minor wear items remain. The recurrence of brake‑pipe corrosion and front‑disc wear in the advisory notes suggests that the underlying cause has not been fully eliminated, but the absence of any major failures in the latest test points to a stabilising maintenance regime. At 111 999 mi the Swift averages roughly 6 500 mi per year over its 17‑year life, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal range for a small hatchback. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest aggressive short‑term use, nor are there large gaps that might indicate long periods of storage. Consequently the wear on major wear items such as the suspension bushings, brake components and drivetrain is likely to be commensurate with age rather than excessive mileage, but the cumulative effect of a decade‑plus of use still demands careful inspection of wear‑prone parts. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front braking system. Verify the actual thickness of the front discs on both sides and look for deep pitting or scoring that could compromise heat dissipation; a disc that is close to the minimum legal thickness will need replacement soon. Inspect the flexible brake pipe on the off‑side front for rust, cracks or any signs of grease masking corrosion, and listen for any hissing or a spongy pedal that could indicate a leak. Test the parking brake for firm holding power – it should engage firmly and retain the vehicle on a slight incline – and confirm that both position lamps and headlamp aim are correctly set, as these were previously out of tolerance. While on the road, feel for any clunk or knock when turning over bumps, which would point to the off‑side front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear noted in 2024, and ensure the steering feels tight with no excessive play. Given the car’s age, independent of the MOT record, the buyer should also check for age‑related deterioration. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear patterns that may stem from prolonged storage; tyres older than six years often need replacement regardless of tread depth. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion on the terminals and test its cranking voltage, as a 17‑year‑old battery is prone to failure. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluid can become contaminated or lose effectiveness simply with time. Finally, look for any rust on wheel arches, under‑carriage and suspension mounting points, and confirm that the service book is up‑to‑date with regular oil changes and any major service stamps, which will give confidence that the vehicle has been cared for in line with its mileage and age.