2013 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · CV63 CSY

The most recent MOT, dated 5 April 2024, recorded a pass overall but flagged a failure for the nearside rear stop lamp not operating. Over the previous six years the car has shown a mixed picture: early‑2020 and 2021 tests highlighted brake‑disc wear, rear coil‑spring corrosion and deteriorating rear axle‑beam bushes, while 2023 produced a dangerous tyre‑tread failure that was evidently remedied before the subsequent pass. The recurrence of brake‑disc advisories each year and the persistence of rear‑lamp faults suggest that while the vehicle is being kept road‑worthy, some wear items are being addressed only as they become non‑compliant rather than pre‑emptively, indicating a maintenance pattern that is stable but not proactively improving. At 91,344 mi the Fiesta averages just over 7 000 mi per annum, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a thirteen‑year‑old hatchback. There are no obvious periods of extreme mileage accumulation that would point to high‑stress operation, nor are there long gaps that might imply prolonged storage. Consequently the wear on major consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be in line with age‑related expectations rather than driven by excessive distance. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear lighting circuit, confirming that the nearside rear stop lamp now functions correctly and that the off‑side rear position lamp and tail‑gate brake light illuminate as required. On a test drive listen for any intermittent click or dimming that could indicate a faulty bulb, socket or wiring harness. Verify that the front tyre tread depth is well above the 1.6 mm legal minimum on both sides and inspect the sidewalls for age‑related cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the tyres have not been rotated recently. The brake discs have been flagged for pitting and scoring on both fronts for three consecutive years; examine the discs for deep grooves, rust spots or uneven wear, and test for any shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes, which would suggest that replacement is imminent. The rear coil springs were recorded as corroded and the axle‑beam bushes as deteriorating in 2021; a visual inspection of the rear suspension should reveal any rusted spring ends, cracked bushings or excessive play when the rear wheels are rocked, and a bounce test can reveal binding or loss of compliance. Beyond the items noted in the MOT history, age‑related checks are advisable. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for perishing, especially if the tyres are older than six years regardless of tread depth, and consider a tyre age check via the DOT code. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and, if possible, its cranking amperage, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity even with low mileage. Examine the engine bay for any signs of fluid leaks – coolant, oil or brake fluid – and confirm that the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids have been changed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, typically every two to three years. Finally, look for any corrosion on the chassis, under‑body panels and suspension mounts that could have resulted from periods of standing, and ensure that all rust‑protected paintwork is intact. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of whether the Fiesta remains a reliable, road‑worthy purchase or if further investment will be required shortly after acquisition.