2012 Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Petrol · LT12 FNK

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-11-24, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. While the 2025 test passed, it flagged two exhaust mounting defects and persistent corrosion on the offside front brake pipe — issues that first appeared in 2023 and reappeared in 2024, indicating a failure to resolve underlying mechanical neglect. The 2023 failure record was particularly severe, with multiple brake pipes corroded and rear brakes binding, suggesting long-term moisture ingress and poor servicing. The fact that these same components reappeared in 2024 and 2025, despite passing in between, points to a pattern of deferred repairs rather than genuine improvement. The mileage progression shows a steady, low annual average of around 4,151 miles per year over 14 years, which is unusually low for a 2012 model. The vehicle moved from 54,372 miles in December 2023 to 56,330 miles in November 2024, then to 58,114 miles in November 2025 — a consistent 1,958-mile jump each year. This suggests the car has been driven sparingly, possibly stored for periods, which can accelerate corrosion and degrade rubber components like brake hoses and suspension bushes. The lack of rapid mileage spikes or gaps implies the car has been kept in relatively stable use, but the low mileage does not negate the mechanical issues — in fact, it may have allowed rust and corrosion to develop undetected over time. A buyer should inspect the brake system in detail, particularly the front and rear brake pipes for corrosion, and test the brake calipers for binding or dragging. The exhaust mounting points require close examination for structural integrity, as repeated failures suggest either poor installation or ongoing stress from vibration or heat. Suspension bushes and coil springs should be checked for wear, as low mileage doesn’t eliminate fatigue in these components, especially if the car has been parked for long periods. The nearside and offside brake systems should be fully flushed and bled, as binding and corrosion indicate a history of neglect that may have compromised hydraulic function. Tyre tread depth should be verified at the next service, as the 2024 failure was due to tread below legal limit — a recurring risk if maintenance is not prioritised.