2020 Fiat 500 C Lounge Mhev 1.0L Petrol · AE70 GJU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 8 October 2025, resulted in a Pass, but the test continued to record the same advisory items that have appeared in the previous two years – the rear passenger seat(s) are missing and the rear tyres show early signs of cracking or perishing. The pattern of advisories is consistent rather than deteriorating, indicating that the vehicle has been maintained well enough to satisfy the basic safety criteria, yet the recurring issues have not been rectified. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable, with the car passing each annual test but with a few persistent points that require attention. With a recorded 27 526 miles on a 2020 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4 600 miles per year, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, rather than heavy, continuous driving. The modest mileage reduces the expected wear on engine internals, clutch, and drivetrain components, but it also raises the possibility of age‑related degradation such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation, and corrosion developing while the car sits idle for long stretches. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the tyre condition. The advisory about the near‑side and off‑side rear tyres indicates early cracking of the sidewalls, a symptom of rubber perishing that can progress rapidly, especially if the vehicle has been stored on hard surfaces. Inspect both rear tyres for any visible cracks, bulges, or loss of flexibility, and verify tread depth with a gauge; a depth below 1.6 mm would be illegal. During a test drive listen for any thudding or vibration that may suggest a tyre is separating from the bead, and check for uneven wear that could hint at mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. The off‑side front tyre was noted as close to the legal limit in 2023, so it is prudent to measure its tread and consider replacement if the remaining depth is marginal. While the vehicle has passed each MOT, the combination of ageing tyres and low mileage means that a fresh set of tyres may be a near‑term expense. The missing rear passenger seat(s) is a safety and legal concern. Verify whether the vehicle’s V5C registration reflects the seat’s removal and whether any seat‑belt anchorage points have been left exposed; an absent seat can affect the structural integrity of the rear compartment and may be required for proper crash protection. If the seat is to be reinstated, ensure that a genuine FIAT seat with correct mounting brackets and seat‑belt fittings is fitted and that the work is documented. Beyond the tyres and seat, check the condition of the 12 V battery – a low‑usage car can develop sulphated plates, so a load test is advisable – and inspect brake discs for surface rust or glazing, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Finally, confirm that routine fluid changes (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid) have been performed according to the service schedule, as calendar‑based degradation can occur even with low mileage. A thorough visual inspection of corrosion around wheel arches, chassis mounting points, and the exhaust system will help identify any hidden damage that may have arisen from prolonged storage.