2012 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · DS61 SZP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of escalating corrosion and component wear. While it passed the latest test in November 2025 at 53,278 miles, the record shows a history of failures regarding the suspension and exhaust systems. The transition from multiple failures in mid-2024 to a pass in late 2025 indicates that immediate faults were addressed, yet the underlying issue of rust-related degradation on structural components remains a recurring characteristic of this vehicle's profile. At approximately 14 years old, the recorded mileage of 53,278 miles averages to roughly 3,800 miles per year. This low-usage profile often correlates with longer periods of standing stationary, which explains the perishing of inner tyres noted in the November 2025 test. However, the rapid increase in mileage between August 2023 and August 2024, where the car covered over 4,600 miles in a year, suggests a period of higher use that likely accelerated the aging of rubber components and led to the mechanical failures. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front and rear suspension assemblies. The tester repeatedly flagged corrosion on the Macpherson strut mounts, suspension arms, and the rear axle. Although these were described as not seriously weakened in the latest report, the presence of rust on coil springs and shock absorbers suggests the vehicle is susceptible to rapid environmental decay. The buyer should also verify that the oil leak reported in 2024 has been properly sealed and check the exhaust system for further leaks or loose clamps, as these were previous points of failure.