2015 Fiat Auto Trail Imala 720 2.3L Heavy oil · YJ65 AAX

The 2015 Fiat Auto Trail Imalà 720’s most recent MOT test on 2026-08-24 resulted in a clean pass, following a pattern of consistent compliance with roadworthiness standards over the past two years. While the vehicle did not fail any tests in this latest inspection, the earlier failure in 2025-07-09—despite no recorded defects—suggests a potential anomaly in the MOT system or an oversight in the inspection process. However, the subsequent passes in 2025-08-21 and 2024-07-29 indicate a stable maintenance trend, with no recurring failures or persistent issues. The absence of advisories or defects in the last three MOTs suggests that, thus far, the vehicle has maintained a reliable roadworthiness profile, though the single advisory from 2023-06-21 remains a notable point of consideration. The recorded mileage of 23,565 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 2,142 miles per year, which is significantly below the typical wear rates for such a vehicle. This low mileage could imply either minimal operational use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which may contribute to specific wear patterns and potential issues. For example, standing for extended periods can accelerate corrosion in brake systems, particularly on calipers and discs, leading to binding or reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, fluid degradation—such as in the brake fluid reservoir, coolant, or transmission fluid—can occur more rapidly when a vehicle is not regularly driven, risking premature failure of seals, hoses, or internal components. The suspension and tyre systems may also show signs of wear from infrequent use, such as stiffened coil springs or deteriorated suspension bushes, which could manifest as unusual handling behaviour or clunking noises during acceleration or cornering. Given the advisory from the 2023 MOT regarding tyre cracking or perishing, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of all tyres for sidewall damage, which can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. Look for signs of dry rot, such as cracks, delamination, or exposed cords, particularly along the shoulder and tread edges. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in tyre noise or vibration, which may indicate uneven wear or hidden damage. The vehicle’s brake system should also be scrutinised for signs of corrosion on discs or calipers, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Check for binding calipers, which may require manual effort to release, or excessive brake pedal travel, suggesting fluid degradation or internal brake component wear. Beyond the above, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s undercarriage, focusing on fluid leaks from the engine bay, transmission, or differential, as well as the exhaust system for corrosion or structural weakness. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the 12-volt battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity. Additionally, verify the presence of service records, particularly for time-based maintenance such as oil changes, coolant flushes, and suspension component replacements, which are critical for longevity. If no service history is available, consider a professional inspection to confirm the condition of internal components like the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, as well as the integrity of the vehicle’s structural frame and bodywork. Finally, since the vehicle has not been driven extensively, the suspension and steering systems may feel stiff or exhibit unusual resistance, warranting a check for worn or degraded suspension bushes, ball joints, or tie rods.