2012 Fiat Punto 1.2L Diesel · FV12 TKZ

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend regarding its suspension and braking components. While the most recent MOT on 17 March 2026 at 41,575 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged recurring issues with the rear coil springs and light oil misting from the nearside rear shock absorber. These issues have appeared consistently over several years, indicating that while the car remains legal, the underlying suspension components are reaching the end of their serviceable life. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 2012 vehicle, averaging approximately 2,970 miles per year. This pattern of light usage is evident in the data, with the vehicle covering only 867 miles between the March 2025 and March 2026 tests. Such low annual mileage often suggests the vehicle spends significant time stationary, which can contribute to the corrosion seen on the coil springs and the pitting noted on the front brake discs during the March 2025 inspection. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the entire suspension system. The MOT history shows a persistent pattern of corrosion on the rear coil springs dating back to at least 2024, and the 2025 test highlighted imbalanced rear brakes and worn front discs. The recurring reports of leaking shock absorbers since 2023 suggest that a full replacement of the rear damping units may soon be necessary to maintain ride quality and stability. The braking system also requires close scrutiny. The March 2025 advisory regarding imbalanced rear brakes indicates that the calipers or shoes may be sticking, a common symptom in low-use vehicles. Given the history of worn tyres and thin brake pads, the buyer should check for uneven tread wear and ensure the braking components are not seized or heavily corroded due to the vehicle's infrequent operation.