2012 Fiat Fiorino 1.2L Diesel · FN62 AEC

The most recent MOT, conducted on 6 January 2026, resulted in a pass, with the only items noted being the near‑side and off‑side front tyres approaching the legal tread limit. Looking back over the past four years the vehicle moved from a major failure in August 2022 – where both front coil springs were recorded as fractured – to a series of advisories concerning anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint play, a modest oil seep and rear brake‑pipe corrosion, all of which have not escalated to failures. This pattern suggests that the catastrophic suspension fault was remedied and that subsequent maintenance has been largely reactive but effective, indicating a stabilising trend rather than a deteriorating one. At 223,324 miles the van averages roughly 15,900 miles per annum, considerably above the typical 8‑10 k miles expected for a light commercial vehicle of its age. Such a high utilisation rate accelerates wear on engine bearings, clutch components, gearbox synchronisers and the front suspension, while also increasing the likelihood of fatigue in chassis members and mounting points. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the MOT record, so the odometer reading appears consistent with continuous use rather than long periods of storage, meaning that most consumables are likely to be near the end of their service life. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front tyre condition, inspecting the tread depth on both edges and looking for uneven wear that could betray mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushings. The advisory on slight play in both front anti‑roll‑bar ball joints warrants a hands‑on check of the bar’s movement; excessive play will manifest as a clunk when the steering is turned sharply or when the vehicle encounters bumps. The oil leak noted in 2023 should be traced – a slow drip from the valve cover or oil filter housing can lead to reduced oil levels and potential engine wear if not corrected. The rear brake pipe corrosion, still present after the 2022 failure, should be examined for rust‑pitting or weakened sections; any spongy pedal feel, brake shudder or uneven braking could indicate that the pipe or its fittings are compromised and may need replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a comprehensive visual and tactile inspection is advisable. Verify that the coil springs have indeed been replaced and are free of cracks or corrosion, and check the condition of the surrounding mounting brackets and dampers for any signs of fatigue. Examine the battery terminals and test the cranking voltage, as a 12‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect all rubber hoses, especially coolant and brake lines, for hardening, cracking or perishing, and confirm that the brake fluid and coolant have been flushed within the recommended intervals. Finally, look for any rust on the under‑body, wheel arches and suspension components, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to structural corrosion that is not always evident in MOT advisories but can affect long‑term reliability.