2013 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · 0347 HBT

A single dangerous-level failure on 2021-11-02 dominates the mechanical record of this 2013 Ford Fiesta, alongside a successful re-test three days later on 2021-11-05. The failures were specifically linked to tyre integrity: a nearside rear bulge caused by structural separation or partial failure, and an offside front tyre with tread depth below the legal 1.6mm minimum. A major defect was also flagged for a missing rear fog lamp. The fact that the car passed its re-test within three days shows the defects were rectified, but the dangerous categorisation for the nearside rear tyre reflects an active safety risk that had developed. The only advisories carried across both the fail and pass entries relate to slight discolouration of both rear direction indicators, a relatively minor cosmetic electrical issue but one that should be verified as fully resolved on any current inspection. The mileage of 122,984 miles over roughly thirteen years equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 9,460 miles, which sits in a fairly typical band for a car of this age and class. With only two MOT test entries recorded and a four-year gap before the most recent test, there is little continuous data to draw firm conclusions about progressive wear. The absence of intermediate test records means suspension components, brake components, exhaust system condition, and corrosion status cannot be confirmed from DVSA data alone, and these areas will have accumulated wear commensurate with the odometer reading. The vehicle is clearly in regular use, and no extended lay-up is evident from the recorded history. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection items should mirror the failure points directly. Both front and rear tyres must be examined for any sidewall bulges, cracking, or uneven shoulder wear, and tread depth should be measured across the full width rather than just the central grooves, as inner or outer edge wear can mask impending replacement. The rear fog lamp should be tested for correct operation, and the condition of both rear indicator lenses and bulbs checked for the discolouration previously flagged. Given the recorded mileage, a thorough examination of the braking system is warranted, including visual checks of disc and pad wear, flexible hose condition for cracking or swelling, and caliper slider integrity, with particular attention paid to any pulling or grabbing under braking during a road test. On the road, attention should be paid to any knocking or clonking noises from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, drop links, or anti-roll bar components consistent with high-mileage Fiesta running gear. Steering should feel precise without excess play at the wheel rim, and any vagueness on centre could point to worn track rod ends or top mounts. Listen for any drivetrain noises during acceleration and overrun, and observe whether the clutch engages smoothly without slipping or judder. A final under-bonnet check should confirm no active oil leaks from the cam cover or sump, steady idle quality, and clean coolant and brake fluid reservoirs, as any of these areas showing significant wear would represent the next likely round of maintenance on a Fiesta of this mileage.