2010 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0L Diesel · FN60 LVC

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta’s most recent MOT test on 2026-05-15 resulted in a passing grade, though it included two advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past six years is mixed but not alarming; while there were two failed MOTs in 2023 and 2024—one of which included a dangerous rear wheel bearing failure—subsequent tests have been clean, suggesting that the vehicle has since been addressed or that the underlying issues have stabilised. The presence of recurring tyre wear advisories and suspension-related defects indicates that the vehicle has experienced some wear and tear over its operational life, but the absence of further critical failures in the intervening period suggests that the owner has likely taken corrective action or that the issues are manageable without imminent risk to roadworthiness. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,603 miles at the time of this assessment is consistent with its age, approximately 16 years old, and reflects an average annual usage rate of around 7,225 miles. This pace is typical for a car of this age, though it does not necessarily indicate excessive wear—particularly if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. However, the combination of high mileage and the documented rear wheel bearing failure in 2023 raises concerns about potential long-term drivetrain stress, especially if the bearing was not fully replaced or if the vehicle has been driven heavily since then. The suspension advisories from 2023 and 2026 also suggest that the front lower suspension arms may be approaching the end of their serviceable life, which could lead to increased road noise or handling instability if not addressed soon. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear wheel bearings, which were flagged as dangerously worn in 2023. On a test drive, listen for unusual grinding, whining, or clunking noises from the rear axle area, particularly when accelerating or braking, as these are clear indicators of bearing failure or impending collapse. The rear brakes should also be checked for uneven wear or sponginess, which could signal pad or rotor issues exacerbated by the thin pad condition noted in the 2023 MOT. The suspension advisories suggest that the front lower arms may have excessive movement or worn bushes; inspect for play in the suspension when the vehicle is jacked up, and listen for clunks when driving over bumps, which may indicate failing suspension components. Additionally, verify that the headlamp aim has been corrected, as the 2024 MOT failure highlights a persistent issue that should be resolved to ensure compliance with lighting standards. Beyond the mechanical checks tied to the MOT history, the buyer should conduct a broader inspection for age-related wear and potential standing corrosion. Given the vehicle’s age, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and reduce tread depth further. Check the battery terminals and cable connections for corrosion or loose connections, as the 16-year age may have contributed to reduced battery health, and consider testing the 12V output to ensure the vehicle remains operational. The brake discs should be inspected for corrosion or binding, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, as standing corrosion can cause calipers to seize or brake discs to warp. Fluid levels, including brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, should be checked for freshness, with a reminder that fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage—especially if the vehicle has not been serviced within the last 12 months. Finally, verify that the service book has been updated, as the lack of recent entries may indicate missed maintenance intervals, which could have prevented the critical failures observed in the MOT history.