2017 Abarth 595 1.4L Petrol · FJ17 YSS

The most recent MOT on 5 March 2026 was a pass, with a single advisory noting that the front brake disc is worn, pitted or scored but not yet seriously weakened. Over the past six years the vehicle has moved from a serious failure in 2024 (both front inner tyres declared dangerous) to a clean pass in 2025 and 2026, indicating that the major safety issues have been addressed. However, recurring advisories for front brake disc wear, rear‑exhaust corrosion and front suspension top‑mount wear suggest a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to wear‑related components. At 89 509 miles the car averages just under 10 000 miles per annum, which is typical for a nine‑year‑old sports hatchback. There are no obvious mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity that would point to unusually high stress on the drivetrain, but the moderate annual usage combined with the vehicle’s age means that consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension bushings will be approaching the end of their service life and should be inspected for age‑related degradation as well as mileage wear. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the front braking system. Measure the disc thickness and look for deep scoring; a thin or heavily pitted disc can produce a pulsating pedal and audible squeal under hard braking. Check the condition of the rear brake disc, which was flagged in 2021, and verify that the brake fluid has been flushed in the last 12‑24 months – old fluid can become hygroscopic and reduce braking efficiency. The rear exhaust back‑box has been repeatedly noted as corroded; examine it for perforations, excessive rust or loud exhaust notes that could indicate a leak. The front MacPherson strut pins, suspension arm bushes and upper top mounts have been flagged as worn; on a test drive listen for clunking or knocking over bumps and feel for any looseness in the steering column or wheel alignment changes, which would point to deteriorating bushings that may soon need replacement. Given the vehicle’s age, also conduct the standard calendar‑based checks. Verify the 12 V battery voltage and its ability to hold charge, especially if the car has spent periods idle. Inspect all fluids – coolant, engine oil and transmission oil – for colour, level and any signs of contamination, and confirm that they have been changed at the manufacturer’s intervals. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, perishing or dry‑rot, particularly on the front tyres that were replaced after the 2024 failure; ensure the tread depth is even and the tyre pressures are correct. Finally, look for any rust on the body panels, wheel arches and under‑carriage, and confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended suspension or brake component replacements. Addressing these items now will give a clear picture of any imminent expenditure and help ensure the car remains road‑worthy for the foreseeable future.