2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · AY09 YGN

The most recent MOT test on 2025-10-14 confirms the vehicle passed without defects at 97,131 miles, maintaining a consistent pattern of compliance over the past two years. Despite two consecutive failures in mid-2023—both at the same mileage (91,548)—the vehicle has since passed every subsequent test, including the most recent one just nine months ago. This suggests the unresolved issues from 2023 were either rectified or fell outside the MOT’s primary safety thresholds. However, the repeated failures at identical mileages warrant scrutiny of components that might degrade predictably, such as suspension bushes or brake calipers, which could have been overlooked or improperly serviced during that period. The recorded mileage of 97,131 miles over 17 years equates to an unusually low average of approximately 5,714 miles annually, which may indicate limited active use or prolonged periods of storage. The gap between the 2023 failures (July 20 and 21) and the subsequent pass (July 21, 2024) spans nearly a year, during which only 1,689 miles were logged—a trend that could imply deferred maintenance rather than consistent driving habits. The 2024 failure at 93,231 miles, just six days before passing at 93,237 miles, suggests a narrow window for critical repairs, possibly pointing to a component with a predictable failure threshold. Given the historical pattern, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in older Fiat 500 models and may explain the 2023 failures. The brakes should also be thoroughly checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the disc surfaces, as these are frequently linked to MOT failures in vehicles of this age. Structural integrity, including underbody corrosion around the sills, wheel arches, and exhaust system, should be assessed, especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. The absence of defects in recent passes does not preclude gradual deterioration, so visual confirmation of fluid levels, tyre condition, and alignment will be essential.