FIAT 5001972 · 0.5L PETROL

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend characterized by a significant decline in mechanical integrity during its last recorded testing. While the car passed its MOT in August 2017 at 46,355 miles, the preceding failure just five days prior revealed a multitude of critical safety and structural defects. The lack of any MOT records since 2017 suggests the current roadworthiness is unknown and the vehicle has likely sat stationary for nearly a decade, which often leads to component degradation. The recorded mileage is exceptionally low for a 54-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 858 miles per year. Data from 2014 to 2017 shows very little movement, with only 607 miles covered over a three-year period. This pattern confirms the car is used sparingly or has spent long periods in storage. In a classic Fiat, such low mileage frequently correlates with perished rubber components, seized brakes, and fluid breakdown, which may explain the sidewall splits and mechanical failures seen in the 2017 results. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering geometry. The 2017 failure specifically flagged play in both front axle king pins and deteriorated track rod end dust covers, indicating significant wear in the steering assembly. Furthermore, corrosion on both rear coil springs was noted during that test, a structural risk that requires verification to ensure the metal has not been compromised by rust. The braking system also requires close attention. The July 2017 test recorded imbalanced brakes across the axle, and the 2015 test noted a rough nearside front wheel bearing. Given the sidewall splits recorded years ago, the current tyres are likely unsafe and require immediate replacement regardless of tread depth. Check for seized calipers and perished brake lines which are common in vehicles with long periods of inactivity indicated by this mileage history.