2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · E11 LAT

Persistent wear in the rear suspension geometry and recurring tyre degradation define the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 3 January 2026 with only a minor note regarding windscreen damage. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent record of annual passes, the recurring advisories concerning the rear axle swivel pins and bushes suggest a pattern of accelerated fatigue in the rear chassis components. This trend indicates that the suspension system has been under significant stress, requiring ongoing monitoring to ensure that slight perishing does not transition into excessive play or structural compromise. Accumulating 175,709 miles over thirteen years results in an average annual usage of approximately 13,516 miles, a figure that sits well above the typical national average for a vehicle of this class. This high-mileage profile implies that the drivetrain and chassis have been subjected to sustained operational cycles rather than short-trip urban use. While this level of usage can sometimes be less detrimental than frequent cold-start cycles, it necessitates a rigorous inspection of all high-wear consumables, as the sheer volume of road use will have pushed many original components toward the end of their design life. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear axle bushes and swivel pins during a test drive, as these components have been flagged as perished or worn in multiple consecutive tests. When driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, listen for any metallic knocking, clunking, or vague handling characteristics from the rear of the vehicle, which would indicate that the previously noted perishing has progressed to a point of failure. Furthermore, the history of tyre wear on the edges suggests that the vehicle may benefit from a professional four-wheel alignment check to prevent premature scrubbing of new tyres and to verify that the rear suspension geometry remains within factory specifications. The front suspension system also requires scrutiny, specifically the ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages that appeared in earlier inspection records. Although these items have not been flagged in the most recent tests, the high mileage makes them primary candidates for fatigue. During the test drive, pay close attention to the steering response for any vagueness or vibrations, and ensure the vehicle tracks straight under braking. Given the recurring windscreen damage noted in recent years, confirm that the glass is free from deep pitting or cracks that could impede visibility or compromise the structural integrity of the windscreen seal.