2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC62 LLK

The 2013 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-12 returned a passing result, though it included two persistent advisories related to brake system integrity and suspension wear. The advisories regarding the front inner brake discs being worn but not critically compromised suggest a gradual degradation that has been monitored over the past six years, with no evidence of sudden failure or severe weakening. Meanwhile, the rear axle swivel pins and bushes showing slight wear in both near and offside positions indicate a recurring issue that has been flagged in the most recent MOT, though the severity remains within the advisory threshold. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is stable, with no MOT failures or critical defects recorded, and the vehicle has consistently passed inspections without major issues, reinforcing its roadworthiness but requiring attention to the identified wear patterns. The recorded mileage of 45,260 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 3,482 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its class. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of extended stationary use, particularly if the vehicle was parked for long durations without regular movement, which can accelerate corrosion and fluid degradation in components like brakes, suspension, and the electrical system. Conversely, if the mileage accumulation was more rapid, it would have implied higher stress on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, potentially leading to more pronounced wear. However, the current mileage profile suggests that wear patterns observed in the MOT advisories may be more influenced by prolonged idleness rather than high operational stress, though this remains speculative without further context on usage patterns. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the brake discs and rear axle swivel pins warrant immediate attention. The front brake discs showing slight wear but not excessive suggests that the pads may have been replaced recently or that the discs are still in serviceable condition for now. However, the risk of uneven wear or potential warping increases with continued use, so it is prudent to inspect the discs for signs of glazing or uneven thickness upon purchase. Listen for any unusual brake noise, such as squeaking or grinding, during a test drive, and check for vibrations or pulling sensations when braking, which could indicate misalignment or binding calipers. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes showing minor wear should be monitored closely, as this can lead to increased play in the suspension, causing clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the suspension for signs of excessive movement or binding, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. Beyond the advisories, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional components. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, focus on the condition of the tyres, particularly for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity over time even with low mileage. Check the tread depth and ensure there are no bulges or cuts that could lead to a blowout. The battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as prolonged standing can accelerate battery failure. Inspect the exhaust system for signs of rust or leaks, which could indicate structural integrity issues or emissions problems, and ensure the catalytic converter is free from blockages or damage. Additionally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in the past three years, consider verifying the service book for any scheduled fluid changes, such as the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years, whichever comes first. Finally, perform a test drive to assess the vehicle’s handling, steering responsiveness, and overall smoothness, paying particular attention to the suspension’s responsiveness and the brakes’ performance under load.