2012 Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Petrol · LS12 LSN

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 February 2026, resulted in a pass but was accompanied by a series of advisories covering the front seat‑belt webbing, thin front brake pads, low coolant level, front tyre wear on the inner shoulder, a deteriorating exhaust flexible section and a slight oil mist from the off‑side front shock absorber. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has repeatedly attracted similar advisories – notably recurring tyre wear on multiple corners, progressive deterioration of the exhaust flex pipe and ongoing brake‑pad wear – and in early 2023 even failed due to faulty position and stop lamps. The pattern indicates a maintenance trajectory that is not improving; rather, the same areas are being flagged year after year, suggesting that remedial work has either been deferred or only partially addressed. The recorded 58,111 miles on a 2012 model equates to roughly 4,150 miles per annum, which is well below the typical usage for a car of this age. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of extended inactivity, possibly in a garage or on a driveway. While reduced wear on engine and drivetrain components is a benefit, prolonged standing can accelerate tyre perishing, battery sulphation, and the corrosion of brake discs and suspension joints. The mileage figure also means that consumables such as tyres and brake pads may be closer to the end of their service life than the odometer alone would suggest. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the tyre condition: the front‑right tyre is already at the legal limit on the inner shoulder, the rear‑right tyre shows nail damage and edge cracking, and the rear‑left tyre is similarly close to the wear limit. Inspect each tyre for tread depth, sidewall cracks, bulges or embedded objects, and verify that the spare is serviceable. During a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that could indicate uneven wear or a developing wheel‑bearing fault, and feel for any pull to one side that might reveal mis‑alignment. The exhaust flexible section is flagged in every MOT; a visual inspection for rust, cracks or loose clamps is essential, and a hissing sound at idle could confirm a leak that may affect emissions and fuel efficiency. The front brake pads are described as thin – measure the remaining pad thickness and check the discs for scoring or rust, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods, as this can cause shudder under braking. Verify that the coolant reservoir is topped up and that there are no external leaks, and confirm that the front‑right shock absorber is free of oil seepage which can reduce damping performance. Beyond the recurring items, the seat‑belt webbing on the driver’s side shows fraying and should be replaced to maintain occupant safety. The faulty position and stop lamps recorded in 2023 must be confirmed as functional before purchase, as lighting defects are a legal requirement. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough check of the 12‑volt battery’s charge‑holding capacity, the condition of the brake fluid (which can absorb moisture over time), and any signs of corrosion on the chassis or suspension bushes is advisable. Request the full service history to see whether time‑based fluid changes have been observed, and consider a professional inspection of the suspension and steering components to ensure there is no hidden wear from prolonged inactivity.