2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LS13 GSZ

The 2013 Ford Fiesta’s latest MOT test on 2026-06-16 was passed without any defects, marking a positive conclusion to a maintenance history that has remained largely stable over the past three years. While the vehicle has not encountered any critical failures, the recurring advisories from previous MOTs—particularly those related to steering rack play, rear wheel distortion, front tyre wear, and brake disc condition—suggest a pattern of wear that demands careful attention. The absence of failures in the last two tests indicates that the vehicle is currently roadworthy but requires proactive monitoring of these advisory items to prevent progression into more serious issues. The consistent passing of MOTs over the past six years reflects a generally well-maintained vehicle, though the advisories highlight areas where further inspection or servicing may be advisable before they develop into defects. The recorded mileage of 70,111 miles for a vehicle aged 13 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,393 miles per year, which is unusual for its age and typically suggests either light or infrequent use. Lower mileage can lead to specific concerns, such as increased susceptibility to issues arising from prolonged standing, including standing corrosion on brake components, suspension elements, and the exhaust system. Additionally, fluids like brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time due to evaporation and heat exposure, even without significant mileage. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation means that wear on consumables like tyres, brake pads, and suspension components may not have progressed as aggressively as one might expect from a higher-mileage vehicle. However, the low usage profile also means that the vehicle may not have undergone the same level of dynamic stress that would typically accelerate wear in active use. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the steering system and suspension, given the repeated advisories regarding steering rack play and rear wheel distortion. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at low speeds, as these may indicate worn steering rack bushings or suspension bushes. Check for any uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the offside front tyre, which was noted to be worn close to the legal limit and on the edge, suggesting potential misalignment or steering issues. Inspect the front brake discs for signs of warping, binding, or excessive thickness reduction, as the previous advisory indicated they are worn but not excessively. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could signal worn brake pads or metal-on-metal contact from corroded or binding calipers. Additionally, verify the condition of the coolant system, as the advisory about coolant stains on the water pump suggests potential corrosion or failure of the pump or associated seals. Check for any signs of coolant leakage around the water pump, radiator, or hoses, and ensure the coolant level is topped up to the correct level. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Test the 12V battery’s health by attempting to start the engine and checking for any dimming of lights or electrical gremlins, as standing vehicles can suffer from battery discharge. Finally, confirm that the service book has been updated for the recommended fluid servicing intervals, particularly for brake fluid, which should be replaced every 2–3 years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or structural integrity, as this can lead to emissions-related issues if left unaddressed.