2018 Fiat 124 1.4L Petrol · EX18 BYS

A trend of braking system deterioration and an unidentified suspension noise defines the current mechanical state of this vehicle. While it achieved a pass on 10 January 2026, the history shows a transition from completely clean records in 2023 and 2024 to a series of advisories concerning the condition of the brake discs and a persistent knocking sound. This indicates that the vehicle is now entering a phase where several key wear-and-tear components require attention to maintain its roadworthiness. With 50,483 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,310 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for its age, suggesting the car has avoided the excessive wear associated with high-mileage use as well as the deterioration risks linked to long periods of standing. Mechanically, the drivetrain and engine should be in a stable condition, though the recent MOT data confirms that braking consumables have reached a point of significant wear. The primary point of concern is the unidentified knocking from the offside rear, which the inspector was unable to locate during the January 2026 test. During a test drive, pay close attention to the rear of the vehicle when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, listening specifically for metallic clunks or knocks emanating from the offside. This symptom often points to worn suspension bushes, a failing shock absorber mounting, or a loose exhaust hanger that requires professional diagnosis. Furthermore, the braking system requires scrutiny due to the recorded pitting and scoring across the offside front, offside rear, and nearside rear discs, following a previous advisory for thin front pads. Listen and feel for any pedal judder or vibration during deceleration, which typically accompanies scored or warped discs. A visual inspection of the disc surfaces is necessary to determine if the pitting is superficial or if the components require immediate replacement to ensure consistent braking performance.