2016 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · GC65 RKA

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Fiat 500 took place on 2026-02-03 and resulted in a passing grade, though it included advisories that suggest ongoing but manageable wear issues. The overall maintenance trend over the past four years is relatively stable, with the vehicle passing most MOTs without major defects aside from the noted advisories. The two failed MOTs occurred in 2023, both of which were major failures—one for a severely damaged nearside rear tyre and another for an insecure nearside brake cable—indicating that these were critical failures that required immediate attention. The fact that the vehicle has since passed subsequent tests suggests that these issues were rectified, but the recurring advisories on the front and rear suspension components warrant careful monitoring to prevent escalation into more serious mechanical failures. The recorded mileage of 86,803 miles for a vehicle of this age and model represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,680 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this type. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does imply that the vehicle has undergone regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity. A lower mileage might suggest less wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, but higher mileage can accelerate wear on critical parts such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and drivetrain elements. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT history suggests consistent ownership, though the presence of both minor and major defects in recent years indicates that the vehicle may have undergone some periods of higher stress or neglect in specific areas. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the near-side front shock absorbers with light oil misting and the slightly worn bushes on the rear upper shock absorbers are concerning but not immediately critical. Oil misting in shock absorbers typically indicates internal damage or degradation, which can lead to reduced damping performance and increased suspension noise or clunking, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed. The worn bushes on the rear upper shock absorbers may cause a loss of alignment or excessive play in the suspension linkage, leading to uneven tyre wear, a binding steering feel, or a rattling noise from the rear axle. On a test drive, listen for clunking or rattling from the suspension when driving over rough roads, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the rear tyres. Impending maintenance should prioritise replacing the front shock absorbers and rear suspension bushes to prevent further deterioration and potential handling instability. Beyond the suspension advisories, the major failure for a cut tyre in 2023 highlights the importance of thorough tyre inspection. The tyre damage suggests that the vehicle may have encountered a sharp object or road hazard, which could have compromised the tyre’s structural integrity. As such, the buyer should replace the affected tyre immediately and inspect all tyres for signs of sidewall damage, cracking, or perishing, which is more likely to occur in older vehicles due to exposure to UV degradation and prolonged storage. Additionally, the insecure brake cable from the 2021 MOT failure indicates that the brake system may have been neglected in the past, potentially leading to reduced braking efficiency or even a complete failure if left unaddressed. Check the brake system for excessive brake pedal travel, sponginess, or a squeaking noise when applying the brakes, and ensure the brake cables are properly lubricated and tensioned. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older cars are more susceptible to battery failure, particularly if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure it holds a charge when tested. Time-based fluid servicing, such as the brake fluid and coolant, should also be considered, as these fluids degrade over time and can compromise the vehicle’s safety and performance.