2010 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · ML60 AAO

The most recent DVSA MOT outcome dated 27 May 2026 is a pass with no recorded defects or advisories, which is a positive immediate indicator for roadworthiness. However, the same date also shows a prior failed test on that day, which was subsequently corrected and re-presented. The earlier 2025 cycle is more concerning: an initial failure on 21 May 2025 recorded a serious fluid leak from the offside front shock absorber and reduced damping effect on the nearside, followed by a pass on 2 June 2025 with multiple advisories confirming misting and reduced damping on the nearside front shock and inner tyre wear on both front wheels. The 2024 test noted rear shock misting, rear axle corrosion, and corroded rear coil springs. Taken together, the trend is one of consistent, recurring deterioration of the suspension and underbody components rather than isolated issues, although the latest result shows these matters have been addressed for the present. The recorded mileage of 64,846 miles over roughly 16 years equates to approximately 4,050 miles per year, which is well below average for a vehicle of this age and indicates either very light use or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage typically results in calendar-driven degradation rather than mileage-driven wear. Components such as brake discs can suffer from corrosion and calipers may bind due to infrequent operation, the 12V battery is likely to have been replaced multiple times and should be checked for date codes and state of charge, and all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil, are more susceptible to moisture ingress and chemical degradation through age than through use. The MOT gaps and mileage progression would benefit from verification via service records to identify any prolonged standing periods or missed annual servicing. For a prospective buyer, the recurring front shock absorber issues are the priority inspection point. Even though the latest test is clean, the nearside front shock had light oil misting and reduced damping effect recorded in 2025, and the offside front shock suffered a serious fluid leak in the same year. These dampers are likely to require replacement imminently, particularly as a single failed unit would have resulted in MOT failure. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, observe excessive body roll through corners, and check for nose dive under braking or continued oscillation after pressing the front wing. The rear shock absorber misting and corroded rear coil springs noted in 2024 should also be physically inspected, as corroded springs are susceptible to fracture and can produce a sudden clunk if they fail. The inner front tyre wear pattern flagged in both 2025 advisories and as dangerous defects in 2026 suggests a possible suspension geometry issue, including worn bushes, top mount wear, or tracking misalignment, and any uneven or feathered tread pattern on a current inspection should prompt a four-wheel alignment check. Beyond the recorded advisories, this age and mileage profile demands careful physical checks that MOT testing cannot fully cover. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking regardless of remaining tread depth, as a 16-year-old vehicle commonly suffers from age-hardened rubber that requires replacement for safety. The underbody and rear axle, where corrosion was specifically recorded in 2024, should be raised and inspected for structural integrity, paying particular attention to brake and fuel lines, sill seams, and mounting points for the rear axle. The engine bay should be checked for oil residue consistent with the slight driveshaft oil leak flagged in 2025, and coolant hoses and cambelt condition should be confirmed, as a 16-year-old Fiat Panda is well beyond the typical replacement interval for the timing belt and water pump, which if not replaced poses significant engine failure risk. Finally, verify the service book history to confirm that annual brake fluid changes, coolant renewal, and recent battery replacement have been carried out, as these time-based items are more critical than mileage on this particular vehicle.