2012 Fiat Punto 1.2L Petrol · NA62 AAO

A twelve-year-old Fiat Punto with fractured front coil springs represents a clear and immediate mechanical risk that any prospective buyer must take seriously. The most recent test on 13 October 2025 resulted in a fail with two major defects recorded against the front suspension, specifically a fractured nearside front coil spring and an insecure offside front coil spring. Although a pass was issued on the same date, it is evident the vehicle required immediate rectification before being driven away lawfully, and the nature of these defects suggests a worn or compromised front axle. Earlier tests show a relatively clean record, with a pass in October 2023 and another in October 2024, the latter carrying only advisory items relating to tyre wear. A prior failure in October 2023 for an incorrect colour rear direction indicator is a minor electrical compliance issue rather than a structural one. Overall, the trend from 2023 through 2024 suggested stability, but the 2025 suspension failure marks a significant and concerning deterioration in roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 67,972 miles across fourteen years equates to an average of roughly 4,855 miles per annum, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the annual MOT testing record, indicating the car has been submitted for inspection every year since at least 2023, and possibly earlier. This pattern of light usage, combined with the absence of any mileage inconsistencies in the visible history, suggests the vehicle has likely been used for shorter journeys rather than long-distance motorway commuting. Mechanically, low annual mileage of this nature typically results in extended wear on components that suffer from underuse, such as seized brake calipers, dried suspension bushes, and degraded rubber components, alongside the very coil spring failure now recorded. The fractured spring itself is consistent with a vehicle that has experienced prolonged standing periods, as corrosion and material fatigue can develop in springs that are not regularly loaded and unloaded through normal driving. Given the recorded suspension failure, a thorough physical inspection of the front axle is essential before purchase. Both front coil springs should be examined for signs of corrosion pitting, cracking, or sagging, and the spring seats should be checked for any deterioration. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, particularly over speed humps, and pay close attention to any vagueness in steering response or uneven tyre wear across the front axle, which can indicate geometry problems stemming from compromised suspension components. The suspension top mounts, strut bearings, and front anti-roll bar drop links should also be inspected for play, as these items often deteriorate alongside coil spring failure on ageing superminis of this design. The advisory items recorded in October 2024 relating to nearside front and rear tyres wearing smooth on the inner edges warrant further investigation, as this wear pattern is often symptomatic of tracking misalignment or worn suspension linkages. On a test drive, the vehicle should be driven in a straight line on a flat road and any pulling to one side noted, while the steering wheel should return to centre smoothly without excess vibration through the column. Given the low annual mileage, the braking system should be specifically examined for seized calipers or corroded slide pins, which can manifest as a pulling sensation under braking, uneven brake disc wear with lipping on the outer edges, or a binding feeling after the vehicle has been driven and then parked for a short period. Finally, inspect the underside of the vehicle, including subframe mounting points, brake pipes, and fuel lines, for any surface corrosion consistent with a vehicle that has spent considerable time stationary and may have been exposed to moisture without regular use.