2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · WU13 AAZ

The 2013 Ford Fiesta’s latest MOT test on 2026-01-28 resulted in a passing grade, though it did not eliminate all prior concerns. The vehicle’s maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories rather than outright failures, with the most recent inspection identifying a corroded rear coil spring and slightly worn suspension bushes or pins on the axle. While the 2024 test showed a dangerous failure for rear tyre tread depth and front brake pads, these issues were rectified before the 2025 and 2026 tests, suggesting that the vehicle has been addressed promptly. However, the persistence of suspension-related advisories—particularly the rear coil spring corrosion and axle bush wear—indicates that the suspension system is approaching a critical stage of degradation, warranting closer attention to prevent further structural or mechanical compromise. The recorded mileage of 60,600 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,662 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of the vehicle being stationary, or even potential neglect in terms of regular driving. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee that wear and tear have been minimal; standing vehicles can suffer from issues such as brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid degradation due to stagnation. Additionally, the absence of significant mileage accumulation over the years may mask underlying wear that would typically be more pronounced in higher-mileage vehicles, making it essential to conduct a thorough inspection to rule out hidden problems. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the rear coil springs and axle components. The corroded coil spring and worn bushes or pins are critical areas; during a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, as these could indicate further deterioration. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the worn bushes. The front brakes also warrant attention, as the advisories from the 2024 MOT suggest that the discs and pads are nearing their operational limits. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive glazing, and listen for a grinding or squealing noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or damaged calipers. For the buyer, a practical inspection should also cover the following: verify the tyre tread depth and condition beyond the legal minimum, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and lead to blowouts. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as standing fluid can degrade over time, compromising braking performance. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals and overall health, as low usage can lead to battery failure. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, it is advisable to confirm that all fluid levels—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are topped up and that there are no visible leaks. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, consider a service check to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as fluid replacements, has been attended to, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to fluid degradation and component corrosion.