2018 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · AX67 AAN

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 3 September 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents the cleanest outcome across the available history and suggests the Fiat Panda is currently in a roadworthy and well-maintained condition. Looking at the broader five-year test history, all five examinations have resulted in a pass, and the advisory notices issued in 2022, 2023, and 2024 are relatively minor in nature. The progression of advisories follows a logical pattern of front brake component wear followed by front tyre wear, which is entirely consistent with normal front axle degradation on a vehicle of this age and configuration. The absence of advisories on the most recent test indicates that items previously flagged, such as the brake pads and tyres, have likely been attended to, and there is no evidence of any recurring structural, suspension, or exhaust concerns developing over time. With a recorded mileage of 37,261 miles across an eight-year service life, the Panda has averaged approximately 4,658 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Annual mileage of this level is more typical of a second household car or a vehicle used primarily for short local journeys rather than regular long-distance commuting. From a mechanical standpoint, low annual mileage is not without its own considerations, as vehicles used infrequently or predominantly for short trips often experience greater wear on certain components due to a lack of regular sustained running, while other components may deteriorate primarily through age rather than use. Given the low annual mileage profile, particular attention should be paid during physical inspection to age-related degradation that would not necessarily be reflected in the MOT history. The original or mid-life tyres may have been replaced during the advisories in 2023, but any replacement tyres fitted at that time will now be approaching three years of service and should be checked for sidewall perishing, cracking, or any uneven wear patterns that may have developed subsequently. The 12-volt battery is a common failure point on lightly driven vehicles, and a load test or voltage check is advisable, particularly if the car has been standing for extended periods. Brake discs and calipers are susceptible to corrosion and seizing when a vehicle is used infrequently, so a thorough inspection should ensure that the front calipers are releasing correctly and that the discs do not exhibit excessive lipping or surface pitting beyond the level previously advised. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil should also be confirmed as within their recommended service intervals, as these fluids are subject to time-based degradation rather than mileage-based wear. On a test drive, particular care should be taken to listen for any suspension clonks or knocking from the front axle, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, suspension bushes, or coil spring seats, all common wear items on the Panda platform. The steering should be checked for any vagueness or knocking on full lock, and the brakes should be tested from moderate speed to confirm smooth operation without any shudder or pull to one side. Given the 2024 advisory regarding the front brake discs, it would be prudent to confirm the current disc thickness and surface condition, as well as the state of the pads. The engine should be observed from cold start for any excessive smoke, irregular idling, or warning lights, and a short drive should be conducted to confirm smooth operation of the clutch and gearbox, as low-mileage vehicles can sometimes develop clutch judder or seizing issues due to infrequent use. Finally, verifying the service book stamps and ensuring that regular oil and filter changes have been carried out at appropriate intervals is essential, as low annual mileage does not negate the requirement for time-based servicing of engine oil and filters.