2013 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · TY13 GAL

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 2026-05-27 and resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory regarding the offside rear road wheel showing a slight distortion under the 5.2.2 (c) (i) condition. This follows a pattern of recurring advisories related to wheel alignment and suspension components, with the offside rear wheel distortion appearing in both 2025 and 2026 tests. The vehicle also failed in 2023 and 2024 due to headlamp alignment issues and front suspension defects, particularly the nearside front track rod end ball joint, which exhibited excessive play and a deteriorated dust cover. While the 2025 and 2026 tests show stability in passing, the persistent suspension and wheel alignment advisories suggest ongoing wear or potential underlying structural issues that should be addressed before long-term reliance on the vehicle. The presence of minor anti-roll bar linkage ball joint deterioration in 2023 indicates that suspension components are reaching critical thresholds, warranting closer inspection. The recorded mileage of 126,045 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,696 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage history does not reveal any dramatic spikes or prolonged periods of high usage, which might accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly, but the consistent presence of suspension-related failures—particularly the track rod end ball joints and coil springs—implies that the suspension system has been subjected to cumulative stress over time. Buyers should be aware that these components are critical for steering stability and ride quality, and their deterioration may lead to uneven tyre wear, clunking noises from the suspension during cornering, or reduced handling precision. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should focus on the suspension and wheel alignment systems. The nearside front track rod end ball joint failures from the 2024 MOT indicate that the ball joint and its dust cover are compromised, which can lead to dirt ingress and accelerated wear of the track rod, steering knuckle, and suspension bushings. During a test drive, listen for a metallic clunking or rattling from the front suspension when driving over bumps, especially on the nearside, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or suspension imbalance. The corroded coil springs noted in the 2024 MOT should be inspected for signs of sagging, stiffness, or structural failure, which could compromise ride height and handling. Additionally, verify that the wheel alignment has been corrected following the distortion advisories, as misaligned wheels can cause steering pull or excessive tyre wear. For broader roadworthiness checks, the buyer should examine the vehicle’s tyre condition closely, given the nearside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit in 2024. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing, cracks, or uneven tread wear, which can indicate prolonged standing or underinflation. The offside rear wheel distortion advisory also suggests that the wheel or hub assembly may require rebalancing or realignment to prevent premature tyre wear or handling issues. Fluid checks are critical, particularly the brake fluid, which should be replaced every two years due to moisture absorption, even if the vehicle has been driven sparingly. The battery, given its age, should be tested for voltage output and corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles can lead to corrosion or reduced capacity. Finally, ensure that all service records are up to date, particularly for the suspension, as the Fiesta’s age and mileage mean that components like the ball joints and coil springs are nearing their expected lifespan. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the condition of the suspension, wheels, and other high-wear areas before purchase.