2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0L Diesel · AP12 ABF

Recurring corrosion of both rear coil springs and the steady approach of the front tyres to the legal tread limit dominate this car’s MOT history, signalling that the suspension and tyre condition will be the primary mechanical concerns for a new owner. The most recent test on 6 March 2026 recorded a pass but again flagged the nearside and off‑side rear coil springs as corroded, while the 2024 failure was limited to an engine MIL fault and insufficient washer fluid – both of which were cleared for the subsequent 2025 and 2026 passes. Overall the record shows a pattern of advisory items rather than repeated failures, suggesting that the vehicle has remained road‑worthy but carries a backlog of wear‑related issues that will need attention. At 89 195 mi the car averages just over 6 300 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within the typical range for a fourteen‑year‑old vehicle and does not point to any periods of unusually high use. The MOT chronology is continuous, with annual tests from 2023 through 2026, so there are no significant gaps that would hide undocumented mileage spikes. This steady accumulation implies that wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components has progressed at a normal pace, but the relatively low annual mileage also means that any premature failures are more likely to be linked to age‑related corrosion rather than high‑stress usage. Prospective buyers should give the rear suspension a thorough inspection. Corroded coil springs can become brittle and may fracture under load, leading to a sudden loss of ride height or noisy clunking over bumps. Check for any visible rust, cracks or deformation on the springs, and listen for metallic knocks when the car is driven over uneven surfaces. Front suspension arm pins and bushes were flagged as worn in 2025; feel for excessive play when applying steering input and watch for any uneven wheel bounce that could indicate deteriorated bushings. Replacing the rear springs and front arm bushings pre‑emptively would restore structural integrity and improve handling confidence. The tyre tread on all four corners was recorded as close to the legal limit in the last two years, so a fresh set of tyres is advisable before committing to purchase; uneven wear could also hint at alignment or suspension issues that should be verified on a test drive. The engine MIL fault noted in the 2024 failure should be cleared and the underlying cause diagnosed with a scan tool – ensure that no pending codes remain and that the emissions system operates correctly. Verify that the windscreen washer system now delivers adequate fluid to both sides, and inspect the headlamp lenses for the minor glazing reported, as poor illumination can affect night‑time safety. Finally, the deteriorated rear registration plate, while not a safety defect, should be replaced to avoid future legal complications.