2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · RO63 XGD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 11 May 2026, resulted in a pass but was accompanied by several advisories: both rear coil springs show corrosion, the rear axle swivel pins and bushes on each side are reported as slightly worn, and the brake pedal is noted as wearing smooth. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has moved from a serious tyre‑tread failure in early 2021 to a series of minor wear and corrosion advisories, indicating that the overall condition has stabilised but that age‑related wear is now becoming the dominant issue rather than catastrophic faults. With a recorded 48,790 mi on a 2013 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 3,750 mi, well below the typical UK average of 8‑10 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation often points to periods of infrequent use or extended storage, which can accelerate corrosion of suspension components and cause rubber parts such as tyre sidewalls and bushings to perish even when the tread appears acceptable. The modest mileage does not eliminate the need to inspect for age‑related degradation, particularly on parts that have been exposed to the elements while the car was stationary. A prospective buyer should give the rear suspension a thorough visual and tactile examination. Look for rust flaking off the coil springs and assess whether the springs are still firmly seated and free of cracks; any excessive play when the rear wheels are rocked could indicate that the corroded springs are losing their ability to support the chassis. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes, flagged as slightly worn, should be checked for looseness or a knocking sound when the car is driven over bumps; a worn bush will manifest as a clunk or vague vibration from the rear. The light oil mist on the front and near‑side shock absorbers suggests seal wear – feel for excessive bounce or a spongy response during a short test‑drive, and verify that the dampers do not leak fluid onto the bodywork. The brake pedal’s smooth wear is a warning that the pedal pad may be thinning; confirm that the pedal travel is consistent, that there is no softening or pulsation under braking, and that the brake discs are free from scoring or excessive rust. Tyre condition demands particular attention. The near‑side front tyre was recorded with a cut in early 2024 and the rear tyres were noted as slightly damaged or perishing in 2021; inspect the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or bulges, and measure tread depth across the width of each tyre to ensure a minimum of 1.6 mm remains. Because the car has spent long periods idle, check the battery’s state of charge and terminal condition, and consider a load test before reliance. All fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be examined for colour and level, with a view to replacing them on a calendar basis if service stamps are missing, as time can degrade their protective properties even on low‑mileage vehicles. A full service history, particularly evidence of regular oil changes, suspension component checks and brake servicing, will provide the best reassurance that the Fiesta’s mechanical integrity matches its low‑mileage appearance.