FIAT PUNTO2005 · 1.2L PETROL

The vehicle presents a concerning mechanical profile despite its current pass-compliant status. While it passed the most recent test on 23 February 2026 at 98,879 miles, it failed that same day due to a seriously weakened and corroded rear sub-frame. This indicates a significant progression from surface corrosion to structural failure. The overall maintenance trend is worsening, as the structural integrity of the chassis has moved from minor advisories to a primary failure point within a single month. The mileage pattern is notably low for a 21-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,700 miles per year. Between February 2024 at 91,152 miles and February 2026 at 98,879 miles, the car covered 7,727 miles. This low usage suggests infrequent travel, but the record reveals that age-related degradation of rubber components and metal structures is taking precedence. The presence of perished tyres is consistent with a vehicle that sits for long periods rather than one with high mileage. A buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the rear sub-frame and all mounting points, as the history shows recurring corrosion in the offside rear inner suspension areas. The tester also flagged corroded offside rear coil springs and shock absorbers in the 2026 test, which require immediate attention to prevent failure. Furthermore, the offside front suspension arm bushes have been noted as worn since 2024, indicating a persistent failure to address preventative suspension maintenance. The braking system shows signs of neglect and inconsistent wear. The February 2026 failure highlighted alarmingly thin front brake pads and pitted discs, while the previous 2025 test revealed imbalanced brakes across the axle. The buyer should also inspect the offside rear brake hose has shown corrosion at the ferrule for three years. Given the persistent oil leak noted in every test, the source of the leak needs to be monitored closely to ensure it does not escalate in severity.