2012 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · FV12 OKX

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding suspension components and engine fluid management. The most recent test in May 2026 at 58,284 miles flagged new advisories for worn rear shock absorber bushes and corroded rear coil springs. This follows a recurring issue dating back to 2020 where the vehicle failed for excessively worn shock bushes, suggesting the rear suspension assembly is reaching the end of its functional life despite low mileage. The mileage profile is notably low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,160 miles per year. However, this low usage appears to correlate with neglect of basic fluid maintenance. Between 2018 and 2024, the car consistently required significant oil top-ups to pass emission tests, including a 2018 failure where the dipstick was completely dry. The presence of a weeping drive shaft oil seal and a gearbox oil leak noted in 2024 and 2025 indicates that while the car is driven infrequently, seals are suffering from drying out due to long stationary intervals. A buyer must personally inspect the engine bay for signs of active oil leaks, as the weeping drive shaft seal and gearbox leak have persisted across multiple years. The rear suspension requires immediate attention; the corrosion on the coil springs and the state of the shock bushes will likely lead to handling instability if not addressed. Furthermore, the history of perishing rubber and uneven tyre wear suggests that the tyres may be failing due to age rather than tread depth, necessitating a thorough check of the sidewalls for cracking.