2013 Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Petrol · LR13 HFO

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2013 Chevrolet Spark was conducted on 9 January 2026, resulting in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded. The broader test history shows a pattern of passes on 16 December 2024 and 4 December 2023, alongside a pass also recorded on 4 December 2023, but with two failures noted on 5 December 2023 and 18 December 2025. Although the failure entries do not list specific defect codes in the records provided, the fact that the vehicle returned to a clean pass shortly after each failure, without advisory accumulation, suggests that any issues identified were rectified at the time of test. The overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable, with the current pass indicating the vehicle is presently meeting minimum roadworthiness standards, though the repeated cycle of failure followed quickly by pass is worth investigating to understand whether the same component areas were implicated on both occasions. With a recorded mileage of 115,039 miles over approximately 13 years, this Spark has averaged around 8,849 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical usage bracket for a city-oriented vehicle of this age. This is a moderate annual figure that implies a balance of regular driving alongside periods of standing, particularly given the urban nature of the car. Mechanically, this level of use suggests the engine, transmission, and clutch components have experienced normal wear for the mileage, but the vehicle has not been excessively worked. That said, given the age of the car, age-related degradation of rubber, plastic, and electrical components is likely to be a more pressing concern than high-mileage mechanical fatigue, and any extended periods of low use could have allowed corrosion or fluid deterioration to take hold unseen. For a prospective buyer, the absence of advisory notes on the most recent pass is encouraging, but it is essential to undertake a thorough physical inspection given the vehicle's thirteen-year service life. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber deteriorates with age regardless of tread depth, and an unused spare should also be checked. Brake discs, particularly on a car that may have seen periods of standing, are susceptible to surface corrosion and binding calipers, which can manifest as a judder under braking or uneven pad wear. The 12V battery is another priority, as units of this age frequently suffer reduced capacity, and it is worth confirming when it was last replaced. Under the bonnet, inspect all coolant and brake fluid for their service intervals, as these degrade over time irrespective of mileage, and look for any signs of leaks around the cam cover, power steering reservoir, or radiator. On a test drive, pay particular attention to any clonking or knocking from the front suspension, which on a car of this age and mileage often points to worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or strut top mounts. Listen for any knocking from the rear as well, and note whether the steering feels vague or wandering, which could indicate tie-rod wear. Brake pedal feel should be firm and consistent, with no excessive travel or sponginess suggesting air ingress or master cylinder wear. The transmission should engage smoothly, and the clutch should bite positively without slipping under load. Finally, verify that the service book contains evidence of regular maintenance at the correct intervals, and where possible, confirm the timing chain or belt replacement history, as neglect in this area on a small petrol engine of this age can lead to costly damage.