2012 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · PJ12 AEU

The Fiat 500 presents a stable roadworthiness record over the past three annual MOT tests, with only two consecutive failures in July 2025—both of which were administrative rather than mechanical. The July 2025 failures at 51,367 and 51,369 miles, occurring just three days apart, strongly suggest a clerical error or oversight rather than a genuine defect, given the absence of any recorded faults. The preceding three tests, from July 2022 to July 2024, all passed without advisories or defects, indicating consistent compliance with basic legal standards. This pattern implies the vehicle has either been well-maintained by its previous owners or, more likely, has benefited from minimal stress due to its low annual mileage. The lack of recurring advisories or defects in the MOT history is unusual for a 14-year-old vehicle, particularly one with such low mileage, raising questions about whether the car has been stored for extended periods or driven sparingly. The recorded mileage of 51,369 miles over 14 years—averaging just 3,669 miles annually—is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the July 2022 test (36,189 miles) and the July 2023 test (42,739 miles) suggests a 6,550-mile jump in just over a year, which is still modest but indicates some activity. More striking is the near-stagnant mileage between July 2024 (45,601 miles) and July 2025 (51,369 miles), where only 5,768 miles were covered in 12 months. This pattern strongly implies the car has spent significant time in storage or seen very limited use. Such low mileage reduces wear on critical components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and drivetrain seals, but it also means fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid—may have degraded due to prolonged inactivity. A buyer should verify whether the vehicle has been regularly driven or left dormant, as the latter could mask underlying issues like seized bearings or degraded hoses. Given the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should still conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection, focusing on components that are prone to degradation even with low mileage. Pay particular attention to the suspension—check for dry or cracked rubber in bushes, worn coil springs, and any signs of corrosion in the subframe or control arms. The brakes should be tested for binding calipers, uneven pad wear, or glazed discs, as these can develop silently in a seldom-driven car. Inspect the exhaust system for rust or leaks, especially around the mounts and heat shields, and verify that all fluid levels are correct and free of contamination. While the MOT record offers reassurance, the vehicle’s age and low mileage history mean some wear will have occurred regardless of test outcomes. Prioritise a professional inspection to confirm no hidden issues exist in areas not covered by the basic MOT criteria.