2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · YP58 XYX

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing outcome on 2026-03-17, with a history of both passing and failing tests over the past two years. While the vehicle has consistently received advisories—particularly relating to rear wheel distortion, sub-frame pin/bush wear, and front brake disc corrosion—these issues have not escalated into major failures or safety-critical defects. The pattern suggests a stable but aging mechanical condition, with wear progressing at a controlled rate rather than deteriorating rapidly. The presence of multiple advisories on the same test day in 2025 indicates some recurring but manageable concerns, though the absence of further failures in 2026 suggests the vehicle is being maintained adequately to avoid critical issues. The recurring sub-frame pin/bush wear and wheel distortion advisories may warrant closer attention during a pre-purchase inspection, as these could indicate underlying structural or alignment concerns that may worsen with further use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 104,008 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,118 miles per year, which is consistent with its age and typical usage patterns for a 17-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for a car of this age, but it does imply prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate certain issues such as corrosion from standing, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. The lack of significant mileage spikes suggests the owner may not be subject to heavy daily use, which could contribute to the observed wear patterns—particularly the brake disc corrosion and sub-frame pin/bush wear, which are more pronounced in vehicles subjected to frequent stop-and-go or high-load conditions. However, the absence of rapid mileage accumulation does not absolve the need for proactive checks, as standing corrosion and fluid degradation can still pose risks over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination are the rear wheel alignment and suspension components, as the recurring advisories on wheel distortion and sub-frame pin/bush wear may indicate misalignment or excessive movement in the rear suspension system. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or corners, as these could signal worn or failing suspension bushes or misaligned wheels. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may reveal misalignment or camber issues contributing to the distortion advisories. Additionally, visually confirm that the rear wheel alignment is within manufacturer specifications, as improper alignment can accelerate tyre wear and compromise handling. Beyond the suspension, the front brake discs show signs of corrosion and pitting, which, while not yet failing, should be monitored closely. Listen for a grinding or squeaking noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate impending disc wear or warping, and check for uneven braking force or a pulling sensation, which may signal binding calipers or warped discs. The buyer should also conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, focusing on the sub-frame area where the advisories indicate wear. Visually inspect the sub-frame and adjacent components for signs of rust or excessive deformation, as these can lead to increased movement and further damage. The presence of corrosion on the anti-roll bar and brake discs from the 2024 MOT suggests that time-based maintenance, such as a full brake system service and fluid top-ups, is overdue. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for strength, as older batteries can fail suddenly, leaving the vehicle stranded. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery holds a charge when the ignition is off. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles and can compromise their structural integrity if cracked or delaminated. Finally, the seat belt retracting mechanism failed in 2025, indicating a potential safety risk that should be addressed promptly, either through repair or replacement. The buyer should also verify that the vehicle’s service history aligns with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, particularly for fluid servicing, as fluids in a 17-year-old car can degrade significantly over time.