2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL63 WMC

The most recent MOT inspection on 12 November 2025 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle has successfully addressed previous mechanical concerns. When reviewing the long-term maintenance trend, the vehicle shows signs of proactive upkeep following a period of instability between 2020 and 2023. During that window, the car exhibited various issues ranging from lighting failures and tyre wear to significant steering component degradation. However, the clean results in both 2024 and 2025 suggest that the previous steering and suspension advisories have been rectified, moving the vehicle from a state of worsening mechanical health into a stable and improving maintenance profile. With a recorded mileage of 122,906 miles over approximately thirteen years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of roughly 9,454 miles per year. This level of annual usage is considered typical for a UK passenger vehicle and suggests a consistent, moderate driving pattern rather than extreme motorway commuting or excessive short-trip urban use. From a mechanical standpoint, this mileage level means that while the vehicle is not excessively worn, many major consumable components such as the timing belt, water pump, clutch, and various suspension bushes will likely be approaching the end of their service life or have already been replaced. The consistency in mileage accumulation reduces the likelihood of issues stemming from long periods of inactivity, such as seized brake calipers or fuel degradation. Despite the recent clean MOTs, a prospective buyer should remain vigilant regarding the steering and suspension systems. The history of track rod end play and axle bush wear indicates that these components are known weak points for this vehicle. During a test drive, you should listen closely for any knocking, clunking, or rattling sounds when driving over uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, as these are primary symptoms of worn suspension bushes or ball joints. Additionally, pay attention to the steering feel; any vagueness, wandering, or a lack of precision in the direction could indicate that the steering linkage components have begun to degrade again. You should also check for any uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the front axle, which can be a secondary symptom of misaligned geometry caused by worn steering or suspension parts. Given the age of the vehicle, a thorough physical inspection of rubber and fluid components is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can occur even if tread depth remains sufficient. Check the brake discs for excessive corrosion or scoring, and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can happen if the vehicle has spent time stationary. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as brake fluid changes and coolant flushes, has been performed according to manufacturer intervals, as these fluids degrade chemically over time regardless of mileage. Finally, inspect the engine bay for any evidence of fluid leaks from gaskets or hoses, which are common as seals harden with age.