2013 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · EF63 CXU

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 22 April 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning. There is a clear pattern of recurring advisories that have remained unaddressed over several test cycles, specifically regarding the steering rack and rear suspension. The failure in late 2024 due to excessive exhaust emissions and visible smoke suggests a period of poor engine health or neglected diesel particulate filter maintenance, while the recent failure for a stop lamp indicates a lack of basic pre-test checks by the current owner. With a recorded mileage of 88,145 miles over thirteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,780 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a small hatchback of this vintage, suggesting the car has not suffered from the extreme wear associated with high-mileage commuting nor the degradation often found in vehicles that have stood idle for long periods. However, the mechanical state of the consumables suggests that while the mileage is moderate, the quality of preventative maintenance has been inconsistent. The prospective buyer should pay close attention to the recurring advisories regarding the offside front steering rack inner joint and the rear axle beam bushes. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when turning the wheel at low speeds or when traversing uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn steering and suspension components. The corrosion on both rear coil springs is a significant point of concern; these are prone to snapping if the corrosion progresses, which can lead to sudden suspension failure. Inspect the rear springs for heavy scaling and ensure the vehicle sits level. The nearside rear tyre is noted as perishing or cracking, which indicates age-related rubber degradation rather than tread wear. This should be replaced immediately to avoid structural failure. Furthermore, given the previous major failure for exhaust emissions and visible smoke, the buyer should verify the service history for diesel particulate filter cleaning or replacement and check for any lingering soot buildup or sluggish acceleration. Ensure all lighting, including the noted fog lamp, is fully operational, and verify that the brake discs are free from excessive corrosion or binding.