2017 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · PJ17 AEG

The most recent MOT test on April 2nd, 2026, confirms this 2017 Fiat 500 remains roadworthy at 51,915 miles, though the preceding failure on April 1st, 2026, at just 61 miles less suggests a narrowly avoided re-test. The pattern of consecutive passes and fails at identical mileages—most notably in April 2025 and April 2026—implies either a last-minute correction of a minor, recurring issue or a technical oversight in the test itself. No defects were ever formally recorded, which reinforces that any problems were likely trivial (e.g., minor corrosion, worn wiper blades, or low fluid levels) rather than structural or mechanical. The absence of advisories or repeated failures on the same component across tests indicates no obvious neglect or progressive wear. The mileage progression of roughly 5,768 miles annually is unusually low for a nine-year-old vehicle, suggesting either infrequent use or prolonged periods of storage. The gap between the 2024 test at 36,061 miles and the 2025 test at 43,626 miles—just over 7,500 miles in a year—followed by another 8,289 miles to the 2026 test, aligns with this pattern. Such low mileage could mitigate some wear concerns, but it also raises questions about fluid degradation (brakes, power steering, clutch) and suspension components (bushes, dampers) that may have deteriorated without regular movement. The lack of mileage spikes or abrupt jumps rules out aggressive driving as a factor, but it does not absolve the need for thorough inspection of components that degrade passively over time. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of suspension integrity, particularly the rear subframe and bushings, which are common failure points on this model. The repeated near-failures at identical mileages hint at a recurring minor issue—likely brake-related (e.g., binding calipers, uneven wear) or suspension-related (e.g., worn coil springs, corroded mountings)—that may not have been fully addressed. Corrosion checks are essential, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as standing vehicles are prone to rust development. Tyre condition should be scrutinised, as the absence of tread-related failures in the MOT history does not preclude uneven wear or internal damage from prolonged storage. Finally, verify fluid levels and condition (brake fluid, power steering, coolant) and listen for unusual noises under acceleration or braking, as these could indicate neglected drivetrain or braking components.