2013 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · EY63 TBU

The 2013 Fiat 500’s most recent MOT test on 29 August 2025—just under a year ago—confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. However, the history reveals a pattern of recurring brake and tyre issues that, while not currently critical, suggest inconsistent maintenance. The binding offside front brake in March 2024 (later described as "excessively binding" on failure) and the persistent tyre damage—including cuts and perishing—indicate a trend of deferred attention. The March 2023 advisory for "offside front service brake binding but not excessively" implies this was a long-standing concern, though it resolved before the August 2024 test. The absence of structural or drivetrain failures in the latest passes is reassuring, but the tyre and brake history warrants closer scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 37,255 miles over 13 years—approximately 2,866 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either very light usage or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the March 2024 and August 2024 tests (both at 30,984 miles) is particularly odd, as it implies either a retest or a vehicle that sat unused for months. The jump from 30,189 miles in March 2023 to 30,984 miles in March 2024 (just 795 miles in a year) further supports erratic usage patterns. While low mileage generally reduces wear, the tyre and brake issues suggest the vehicle was not simply driven lightly but rather neglected in upkeep during periods of inactivity. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the front brake system, particularly the offside caliper and pads, given the repeated binding advisories. The tyre history—with cuts and perishing on both front tyres—demands verification of current tread depth and lateral integrity, as well as checking for hidden corrosion or damage to the wheel arches. Suspension components, especially the front bushes and coil springs, should be examined for wear, as binding brakes often correlate with misaligned or seized suspension parts. Rust penetration in the wheel bearings or subframe should also be inspected, given the vehicle’s age and the front tyre damage history. While the MOT record shows no major structural failures, these areas carry the highest risk of latent issues.