2016 Fiat 124 1.4L Petrol · C5 GRV

The 2016 FIAT 124 has demonstrated a generally clean motoring record over its ten-year history, with five consecutive passing tests from 2021 through 2026, each showing no active defects. A single advisory appeared during the 2021–2022 period when both the nearside and offside rear tyres were reported as worn close to legal limits and appearing worn on the edges (5.2.3 (e)). Since that incident, the vehicle has continued through four straight successful MOTs, including the most recent one on 2026-04-10, indicating that any underlying issues were likely addressed or resolved within the intervening months. The absence of ongoing faults across such a prolonged interval suggests the chassis and powertrain have remained structurally sound, though the earlier tyre advisory warrants attention regardless of its resolution. The recorded mileage of 15,428 miles for a model aged approximately ten years represents a notably low utilisation figure, averaging around 1,543 miles per year rather than the typical 2,000–3,000 miles seen in comparable usage patterns. This slow accumulation implies either infrequent driving or extended periods where the vehicle was stored, neither of which would normally accelerate normal wear on major systems. While lower mileage can mask hidden deterioration, the fact that all subsequent MOTs have cleared without fault suggests that the engine, transmission, and primary drivetrain components have not experienced excessive stress. However, the substantial gap between the 2021 advisory and the return of clean results raises the question of whether any repair work was deferred or if the tyre issue represented a transient problem that resolved itself once the tyres were properly inflated or replaced. Given the specific historical flag regarding the rear tyres, a test drive should focus on confirming that proper inflation is maintained and that the wheels remain true to specification, as the original advisory indicated edge wear which could indicate uneven contact patches or underlying structural flex. The suspension arms and bushings should be inspected for signs of fatigue given the low mileage—while high mileage typically degrades bushings faster, the absence of warning lights does not guarantee their integrity remains perfect. Brake system performance should also be checked, particularly the front disc rotors and caliper operation, as the tyre issue might have coincided with reduced braking confidence due to compromised grip. Any visible rust on the subframe or wheel arches should be examined closely, as prolonged storage combined with occasional use can allow surface oxidation even when the main bodywork appears intact. Buyers should treat the 2021 tyre advisory as a red flag that persisted longer than necessary despite the subsequent clean MOTs, and verify that the affected tyres have been fully serviced and correctly aligned following the last MOT. The consistently clean post-2021 records provide reassurance that the core mechanical systems—engine, cooling, electrical, and drivetrain—have not deteriorated significantly, but they do not eliminate the need for a thorough visual survey of the suspension geometry and brake components. Given the unusually low mileage, a detailed inspection of the subframe bolt pattern and any sign of structural stress is prudent, especially if the vehicle has spent significant time parked outdoors. Ultimately, while the official MOT history shows a stable and compliant record, the combination of the early tyre advisory and the anomalous mileage profile makes independent verification of suspension integrity, brake function, and general condition essential before committing to purchase.