2018 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · AM04 DAW

The most recent MOT, carried out on 29 October 2025, was passed but returned three advisories: mild corrosion of the rear sub‑frame, the nearside rear tyre approaching the legal tread limit and showing edge wear, and the off‑side front tyre similarly close to the limit with inner‑edge wear. Over the previous four years the pattern has been consistent – each annual test has highlighted tyre wear and, in 2023, the onset of front brake disc and pad thinning, while a non‑functional central upper stop lamp was flagged in 2024. The overall maintenance trend can be described as stable; there are no outright failures, yet the recurring wear‑related advisories indicate that consumables are reaching the end of their service life and should be addressed promptly to avoid future failures. With a recorded 36,067 miles on an eight‑year‑old 2018 Fiat 500 the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,500 miles, well below the typical UK figure of 10‑12 000 miles per year. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage because components age with time as well as distance. The modest mileage suggests that major drivetrain wear – for example on the gearbox, CV joints or engine bearings – is likely to be low, but the vehicle may have suffered from age‑related degradation such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation, and corrosion in areas that sit idle for long stretches. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the tyre condition: the current advisories indicate that both the rear nearside and front off‑side tyres are close to the 1.6 mm legal limit and exhibit edge wear, a sign of mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven loading. On a test drive listen for a hollow or thudding noise when cornering, feel for any pull to one side, and check that the steering feels tight and responsive. Verify that the rear sub‑frame shows no rust‑spalling beyond surface corrosion; any creaking or clunk when applying throttle or braking could indicate structural weakening that would need a professional survey. The front brake discs and pads, flagged in 2023, should be measured for thickness and inspected for scoring; a pulsating pedal, squeal on initial application, or reduced braking distance would confirm that replacement is imminent. Finally, confirm that the central upper stop lamp now functions, as a missing stop light is a safety and legal issue. Because the vehicle has spent considerable time at low mileage, inspect the 12 V battery for sulphation, check the electrolyte level if it is a conventional lead‑acid type, and perform a load test to ensure it can hold charge. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and any signs of contamination; fluids degrade over calendar time even without high mileage and should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s service intervals. Look over the suspension components for cracked or perished rubber bushings, especially around the lower control arms and rear sub‑frame mounts, and ensure there is no excessive play in the wheel bearings. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the near‑term maintenance required before committing to purchase.