2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · MM62 LKC

The 2013 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-13 resulted in a failure due to a washer fluid deficiency and persistent thin front brake pads, alongside a passed test on the same date that only flagged the brake advisories. This pattern reveals a concerning maintenance trend—while the vehicle passed MOTs without major issues for the preceding four years, the past two tests have consistently highlighted front brake wear and, in 2025, a critical front suspension arm ball joint failure. The recurring advisories on brake pad thickness suggest either inadequate or delayed servicing, while the ball joint failure indicates a structural component approaching end-of-life, warranting immediate attention to prevent further suspension degradation or alignment issues. The vehicle’s overall roadworthiness is compromised by these defects, particularly the ball joint, which could lead to uneven tyre wear, steering play, or even suspension collapse if left unresolved. The recorded mileage of 73,983 miles for a 13-year-old Fiesta represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,691 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical wear rate for vehicles of this age and model. Such low mileage can sometimes reflect prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or used sparingly for daily commuting. However, this usage profile does not necessarily mitigate the wear risks posed by the recorded defects. The front brake pads, for instance, have been flagged as thin in every MOT since 2025, which, even at lower mileage, suggests either slow but steady consumption or improper braking habits. The suspension ball joint failure further implies that the vehicle has been subjected to stress beyond routine usage, potentially due to heavy loads or rough driving conditions, which could accelerate wear in other suspension components like bushes or springs. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front brake system, focusing on the brake pads, discs, and calipers for signs of uneven wear, glazing, or binding. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises from the front brakes when applying the pedal, as this could indicate metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs. Additionally, check for a soft or spongy brake pedal, which may signal air in the hydraulic system or worn brake master cylinder components. The front suspension should be inspected for excessive play or clunks, particularly around the steering axis, which could confirm the severity of the ball joint failure. If the ball joint is confirmed as failed, the suspension arms, bushings, and coil springs should be replaced to restore proper alignment and ride quality, as further suspension degradation could lead to misalignment and uneven tyre wear. For the 2013 Fiesta’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, where moisture and road debris can accelerate rust formation. Check the tyre tread depth for uniform wear and look for sidewall perishing, which can occur even at low mileage if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without use. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion on terminals, a swollen or bulging battery case, or reduced cranking power, as older batteries may struggle with short trips or prolonged inactivity. Fluid levels should be checked—specifically the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—with attention to their freshness and colour, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that the last oil change and fluid top-ups were performed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, which for this model are typically every 15,000 to 20,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Finally, a professional inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or structural integrity is advisable, given the advisories on the sub-frame pin or bush wear, which could indicate underlying issues with the exhaust manifold or catalytic converter mounting.