2021 Fiat 500 Dolcevita Mhev 1.0L Petrol · FX21 MLU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 14 August 2026, resulted in a pass but recorded three advisories – a minor oil leak, light oil misting from the off‑side front shock absorber and wear on the off‑side front MacPherson strut pin or bush. This follows a failure in May 2025 that was driven by a dangerous rear‑tyre separation, a malfunctioning TPMS and a defective windscreen wiper, after which the vehicle passed the 31 May 2024 test with no defects. The pattern shows a clear improvement from a serious safety failure to a clean pass, yet the recurrence of front‑suspension‑related advisories indicates that some wear items are persisting and will need attention before they become safety‑critical. At five years old the car has logged 64 020 miles, averaging roughly 12 800 miles per annum – considerably above the typical 8‑10 000 mile yearly usage for a small city car. This higher mileage accelerates wear on the tyre tread, suspension bushes, brake discs and the hybrid‑assist system’s electric components. It also suggests the vehicle has been driven more aggressively or over longer journeys, which can exacerbate fatigue in the front MacPherson strut assembly and increase the likelihood of oil leaks from the engine or dampers. Potential buyers should be aware that consumables are likely nearer the end of their service life than the age alone would suggest. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front suspension and steering geometry. Check the off‑side front shock absorber for any external oil residue and feel for excessive play or clunking when the wheel is rocked vertically and laterally; a worn MacPherson strut pin or bush will manifest as a vague knocking noise over bumps and may cause uneven tyre wear. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking, bulging or the “lump” noted on the near‑side rear tyre in the 2025 failure – a tyre with a structural defect can separate suddenly and should be replaced immediately. Verify that the TPMS sensors are functional and that tyre pressures are within spec, as a faulty system can mask under‑inflation and accelerate tread wear. Also inspect the engine bay for any dripping oil around the valve cover and the rear of the shock absorber, and confirm that the oil leak advisory does not indicate a growing breach that could affect the oil pump or gearbox lubrication. On a test drive listen for any irregularities such as a thudding or squeaking from the front suspension, especially when negotiating potholes or uneven surfaces, and watch for any pull to one side that could hint at uneven tyre wear or a misaligned strut. Confirm that the brakes apply firmly without pulsation, as high mileage can lead to disc corrosion or caliper binding; look for uneven disc wear or excessive dust when the wheels are removed. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12 V battery should be load‑tested, and the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil should be inspected for colour and level – fluids degrade over calendar time irrespective of mileage. A full service history, particularly recent replacement of tyres, brakes and suspension components, will provide reassurance that the car has been maintained in line with the wear indicated by its MOT record.