2012 Abarth 595 1.4L Petrol · K172 LES

Front‑end suspension and damper condition dominate the MOT history, with repeated major failures for the nearside front suspension arm and serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers in 2023 and 2024, culminating in a failed test on 24 September 2024. Subsequent testing shows those faults have been rectified, as the latest 15 September 2026 MOT passed, leaving only advisory items – tyre tread approaching the legal limit, scored rear brake disc and some rear‑exhaust corrosion. The trend therefore moves from a period of acute front‑suspension failure to a currently acceptable, though still advisory‑laden, state. The recorded 46,205 miles over fourteen years works out to roughly 3,300 mi per annum, well below the typical usage for a sports hatchback of this age. Annual testing has been consistent with no significant gaps, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road and subjected to regular MOT scrutiny despite the low mileage. Low annual accumulation reduces overall wear on drivetrain and engine components, but it also raises the possibility of prolonged idle periods that can accelerate rubber hardening and corrosion, as reflected in the tyre and exhaust advisories. Prospective buyers should concentrate on the front suspension and damper assembly. On a test drive, listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any looseness or excessive play in the steering column, and check that the car settles smoothly without a noticeable bounce after a corner. Any oil stains on the shock absorber bodies or a persistent oily film on the wheel wells would indicate a recurrence of the fluid‑leak issue. The tyre wear pattern – worn on the inner edges of all four tyres – suggests possible mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes; a professional wheel‑alignment check and inspection of the front arm pins and bushings are advisable before committing. The rear brake disc, flagged as scored and corroded, should be examined for deep grooves or uneven pad wear, and the pedal should be tested for consistent bite without pulsation. The rear‑exhaust outer skin corrosion, while not a safety failure, may lead to rust‑related failures if left unchecked; a visual inspection for perforations or excessive rust is prudent. Finally, the deteriorated rear registration plate, though still legible, should be replaced to avoid future compliance issues. Replacing the tyres to a full‑depth set and confirming the condition of the front suspension and dampers will address the remaining advisory items and bring the car to a more robust road‑worthy state.