2016 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · EU66 VRM

The defining mechanical theme across this FIAT 500's MOT history is a string of passes with only minor, non-recurring advisories, though the most recent test on 2026-02-02 introduces the first cluster of items pointing towards ageing suspension components and a minor oil leak. Across eight recorded tests dating back to 2019, the vehicle has not failed a single MOT inspection, which represents a consistent record of roadworthiness under DVSA criteria. However, the 2026 advisories mark a shift from the previous pattern of either clean passes or trivial observations (wipers, coolant level, loose filter box, missing clamp) to issues centred on the rear suspension bushes and an oil weep. The trajectory is therefore best characterised as stable up to late 2025, with the first signs of component wear now beginning to surface as the car passes the ten-year mark. At 82,000 miles over ten years, this 500 has accumulated roughly 8,200 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a small city-oriented hatchback of its age. There are no significant gaps between tests that would suggest extended periods off the road, and the mileage progression implied by the regular annual or biennial testing cadence appears steady. This kind of mileage profile tends to produce even, moderate wear across consumables and suspension items rather than the concentrated drivetrain fatigue often seen on high-mileage vehicles, though it still places the car squarely within the zone where original bushes, dampers, and small engine seals begin to deteriorate. For a prospective buyer, the rear upper shock absorber bushes flagged in the 2026 test warrant close attention on a road test. With both nearside and offside upper mounts noted as slightly worn, listen for any clonking or dull knocking from the rear suspension over uneven roads, speed humps, and pothole strikes, and feel for any vagueness or secondary movement in the rear of the car during directional changes. Gently pushing down on each rear corner with the vehicle stationary and rebounding it can also reveal whether the dampers are holding the car level or allowing it to bounce excessively, which would suggest the bushes have deteriorated further since the advisory was issued. Given the FIAT 500's tendency for corrosion around the rear axle and spring seats, it is worth inspecting these areas visually for any surface rust developing around the mounting points. The advisory noting an oil leak, though not excessive, should not be dismissed on a small-capacity engine where even modest seepage from the cam cover gasket, sump, or rocker cover can quickly develop into a more significant issue if left unmonitored. On inspection, look for fresh oil staining on the engine block, sump plug area, and any residues on the underside of the bonnet or along the cam cover seams, and check the oil level on the dipstick to confirm it is at the upper mark. The earlier advisories concerning the coolant being low and the air filter box being loose are worth revisiting in person too: verify the coolant reservoir is filled to the indicated line with no persistent need for top-ups between services, and ensure the air filter housing is securely clipped down with no unsecured inlet piping. Finally, although the rear exhaust back box clamp was flagged missing in 2024, confirm the back box itself is properly supported and not hanging on the rubber mount alone, as a missing clamp can allow the silencer to shift under load and produce a rattle at idle or under acceleration.