2013 Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Petrol · LN63 CYF

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark presents a mixed maintenance picture that has deteriorated notably in recent years. The most recent MOT, conducted on 3 January 2025 at 90,613 miles, passed but carried several advisories signalling declining underbody and suspension condition. The offside front track rod end ball joint had slight play, both front inner suspension arm pins or bushes were worn, and the rear brake pipe was corroded and contaminated with grease or other material. Rear seat belt webbing was frayed on both sides, and sideskirts were fitted, which can mask corrosion beneath. Compared with the clean pass recorded on 10 June 2021 at 70,134 miles, the trend is clearly worsening, with structural and safety-related advisories accumulating over the last four tests. The mileage progression tells a story of increasing use after a relatively quiet period. Between the June 2021 test at 70,134 miles and the January 2022 test at 72,819 miles, the car covered roughly 2,685 miles in seven months. From January 2022 to January 2023, it added 13,281 miles, then 2,189 miles to January 2024, and 2,325 miles to January 2025. The annualised rate sits close to 7,000 miles per year, which is typical for the age, but the sharp jump between 2022 and 2023 suggests heavier use during that period, likely accelerating wear on brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components. The recorded mileage of 90,613 at the most recent test aligns with this pattern and does not raise immediate concern over rolling back, though a buyer should still verify the figure against service records and the general condition of the clutch, pedal rubbers, and steering wheel wear. A hands-on inspection should focus on the areas the MOT record repeatedly flags. The front suspension is a recurring weak point, with advisories for worn inner suspension arm bushes, slight play in both front strut tops, and track rod end play appearing across multiple tests. Have a technician check the front wishbone bushes, strut top mounts, and track rod ends for play and deterioration, as these affect steering precision and tyre wear. The rear brake pipe corrosion noted in both 2024 and 2025, combined with a binding nearside front service brake in 2024, points to a braking system that has not been properly maintained. Inspect the entire rear brake line run, especially near the flexi hose, for pitting and fresh corrosion, and assess the calipers and discs for uneven wear or binding. The seat belt webbing damage recorded on both front seats in 2024 and 2025 is a safety concern that should not be dismissed as cosmetic. Fraying compromises the belt's load-bearing capacity in a collision. Check both belts for cuts, fraying, and slow retraction, and confirm the buckles and anchor points operate correctly. The deteriorated nearside front CV joint boot flagged in 2024 may have already led to joint contamination; listen for clicking on full lock and inspect the joint for play. Finally, the fitted sideskirts warrant close scrutiny, as they can trap moisture and conceal sill or floor corrosion. A thorough underside inspection, ideally on a ramp, is essential before purchase.