2012 Fiat 500 0.9L Petrol · AX61 DHC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 February 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory that both rear coil springs are corroded and noted a near‑side headlamp failure on dipped beam, which was classified as a failure on the same date. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has shown a mixed maintenance pattern: a clean pass in January 2025, followed by a series of advisories in early 2024 concerning corrosion of both front and rear coil springs, tyre perishing, and front brake disc surface condition, with a dangerous front‑tyre tread depth failure on 24 January 2024. The recurrence of spring corrosion and tyre condition alerts suggests a gradual deterioration, although the vehicle has remained passable after remedial work, indicating that the owner has been addressing the most critical faults. At 105,429 miles recorded in September 2026 the Fiat 500 averages roughly 7,500 miles per annum over its 14‑year life. This usage rate is typical for a small city car and does not point to excessive wear from high mileage. However, the relatively modest annual mileage also implies periods of low utilisation or extended storage, which can accelerate age‑related degradation such as rubber perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension components. No large mileage spikes are evident, so the wear observed is more likely to be calendar‑driven than mileage‑driven. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the suspension and tyre condition. Inspect both rear coil springs for surface rust, pitting or loss of structural integrity; any audible clunk or uneven ride when braking or traversing bumps may indicate weakened springs or deteriorating bushings. Examine the near‑side rear tyre for sidewall cracks, dry rot or bulges, and verify that the front tyre tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit – a fresh tread check with a depth gauge is essential. The front brake discs, flagged as pitted and scored, should be measured for remaining thickness; excessive scoring can lead to brake shudder or reduced stopping performance, and replacement may be imminent if the minimum thickness is approached. Confirm that the near‑side headlamp operates correctly on both dipped and main beams, as a non‑functional lamp was the cause of the recent failure. Beyond the recorded defects, the car’s age warrants a thorough check of time‑sensitive items. Inspect the 12 V battery for signs of sulphation, low cranking voltage or swollen case, especially if the vehicle has spent long periods idle. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are within specification and consider a complete fluid change if service records are absent, as fluids degrade even without mileage. Look for corrosion on chassis mounting points, especially around the suspension mounts, and ensure that any rust is surface‑treated rather than penetrating. Finally, review the service book for regular oil changes and any recorded suspension or brake work; a well‑documented service history will give confidence that the recurring issues have been properly addressed.