2013 Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Petrol · SP13 XKH

The vehicle currently presents as roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach. The most recent test in March 2024 at 98,964 miles resulted in a pass following a failure just one day prior for a seat belt, lighting, and an illegally worn tyre. While the immediate safety failures were rectified, the persistence of a non-excessive oil leak since the 2024 test suggests an ongoing mechanical issue that has not been fully addressed. At 98,964 miles over thirteen years, the car has averaged approximately 7,600 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a city car of this age. The record shows consistent use, with roughly 14,000 miles covered between March 2022 and March 2023, and another 12,000 miles between March 2023 and 2024. This steady mileage suggests the vehicle has not sat stationary for long periods, which generally helps prevent the degradation of rubber components and fluid seals. A buyer must focus closely on the braking system due to a history of significant corrosion across all brake pipes. The 2022 test flagged corrosion on every single pipe, which was also covered in grease, likely an attempt to hide the rust. By March 2023, the nearside front brake pipe was noted as excessively corroded, followed shortly by a major exhaust leak and a leaking offside rear shock absorber. An inspection is required to ensure that the brake lines have been replaced with new copper or steel piping rather than merely cleaned or painted. The recurring oil leak noted in both 2023 and 2024 warrants a physical check to determine if the source is a simple gasket or a more serious internal seal. Given the previous failure for a major exhaust leak in 2023, the entire exhaust system should be inspected for signs of further thinning or structural fatigue. While the car has passed its latest tests, the pattern of replacing components only upon failure indicates that the vehicle is maintained maintained when necessary to pass the MOT.