2018 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · FN18 OSX

A history of intermittent suspension wear defines the mechanical record of this vehicle, specifically centered around a failure in March 2024. The vehicle failed its test on 22 March 2024 due to an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush, alongside advisories for worn upper Macpherson strut pins and bushes on both the nearside and offside. While these issues were present during the 2024 testing cycle, the subsequent tests on 21 March 2025 and 18 March 2026 were passed without any defects recorded, suggesting a return to a stable roadworthiness status. The recorded mileage of 59,784 miles over an eight-year period reflects a typical usage profile, averaging approximately 7,473 miles per annum. This consistent accumulation rate indicates that the vehicle has been used regularly, avoiding the degradation often associated with long periods of inactivity while remaining below the threshold where extreme wear on the drivetrain and chassis components typically becomes critical. Inspection should focus on the front suspension geometry and stability given the previous failures and advisories regarding the Macpherson struts and lower suspension arms. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over undulating surfaces. Any perceived looseness in the steering or a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side under braking could indicate that the previously flagged suspension bushes have not been fully rectified or are wearing again. Attention should also be paid to the braking system following the 2022 advisories for worn front brake discs and thin pads. While these were not flagged in the most recent tests, the buyer should check for pedal judder during deceleration, which can indicate warped discs, or a lack of bite that may suggest the pads are nearing the end of their service life. Ensuring the brakes operate smoothly and without noise is essential to confirm that the wear noted in 2022 was properly addressed.