2015 Fiat Auto Trail 2.3L Diesel · HX15 BBK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 November 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, although the same advisory items that appeared in earlier tests remain. Over the last four years the vehicle has moved from a dangerous tyre failure in the 2022 test to a clean pass, but the persistence of advisories for heavy under‑sealing, corrosion on the brake pipe and tyre perishing indicates that the underlying condition has not improved significantly. In other words the maintenance trend is marginally stable – the critical safety issue was remedied, yet the recurring defects have not been fully resolved. With only 23,780 miles recorded on a vehicle that is now eleven years old, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 2,160 miles. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity rather than gentle use, and that can accelerate the ageing of rubber components, battery plates and protective under‑seal. The modest mileage means that wear on high‑stress items such as the clutch, gearbox and engine internals is likely to be low, but the lack of regular motion can lead to tyre sidewall cracking, brake disc rust and corrosion of the chassis and brake pipe. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the condition of the under‑seal and any signs of rust on the sills, wheel arches and lower chassis members. The brake pipe should be examined for surface rust, pitting or any evidence of grease that may be masking corrosion, and the hand‑brake should feel firm without excessive travel. All four tyres must be checked for sidewall cracks, perishing or bulges, and the tread depth should be measured; uneven wear could signal worn suspension bushes, mis‑aligned steering geometry or a binding caliper. On a short test drive listen for clunks or squeaks from the front suspension, feel for any pull or vibration that might betray a mis‑aligned wheel, and note whether the brakes bite cleanly without shudder or pulsing, which would indicate disc surface degradation. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also verify the health of the 12 V battery (voltage above 12.6 V at rest and no excessive voltage drop under load), and confirm that the coolant, engine oil and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals – typically every two years for brake fluid and every three to five years for coolant. A full service book should show timing‑belt or chain replacement according to the manufacturer’s schedule; if the belt has not been changed, plan for its replacement as a preventative measure. Finally, request a visual inspection of the suspension bushings, coil springs and any visible exhaust components to ensure there is no hidden corrosion or fatigue that could become costly after purchase.