1997 FIAT DUCATO1.9L Diesel

The 1997 Fiat Ducato shows a clear pattern of progressive corrosion and mechanical neglect despite its low mileage. In the most recent test in March 2026 at 62,518 miles, the vehicle passed after a significant failure just three weeks prior. While the tester noted structural corrosion on the offside front that does not yet compromise rigidity, the recurring presence of wheel bearing play on the nearside front and offside rear alongside corroded brake pipes indicates a lack of proactive preventative maintenance. The presence of grease on corroded brake pipes suggests an attempt to mask surface-level rust rather than replace the failing components. The vehicle has covered only 62,518 miles over 29 years, averaging approximately 2,150 miles per year. This low usage profile likely contributes to the age-related degradation seen in the records. Between 2020 and 2026, the vehicle failed multiple tests for brake issues, including binding calipers, excessive parking brake movement, and fluctuating front brakes. The March 2025 failure at 61,552 miles highlighted critical structural corrosion on the inner wing mounting points, which appears to have been addressed just enough to pass the subsequent test, though the underlying integrity remains a long-term concern. Mechanical attention is required for the braking system and suspension. Front brake discs have been flagged as pitted or scored in every test since 2021, suggesting they are only replaced when they reach immediate failure. The 2026 failure for high exhaust emissions and an ineffective wiper suggests that engine health and basic consumables are not being regularly serviced. A prospective buyer should inspect the structural integrity of the inner wings and brake pipe routes thoroughly, as the record shows a consistent trend of advancing rust across the chassis over the last five years.