2012 Abarth 500 1.4L Petrol · GD12 MPE

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-18 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included several advisories and minor defects that warrant careful consideration. Despite the failure in May 2025 due to multiple non-functional lamps and a critical anti-roll bar linkage issue, the vehicle has since returned to a stable MOT status with no major defects recorded in the past two years. The recurring advisories—particularly the persistent oil leak and corroded brake pipe—suggest a need for proactive monitoring, as these could indicate underlying mechanical wear or manufacturing defects. The earlier failure in 2023 highlighted the anti-roll bar linkage ball joints as a recurring problem, which, if left unaddressed, may lead to premature suspension failure or increased road noise from loose or worn components. The vehicle’s mileage of 115,307 miles over approximately 14 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,236 miles per annum, which is consistent with its age and typical owner behaviour. Such mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does imply that the car has undergone regular use, particularly in the last decade, which could accelerate consumable wear such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active service, potentially contributing to more rapid degradation of fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, which should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations rather than mileage alone. Given the recurring advisories and past failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the suspension and braking systems. During the test drive, listen for unusual noises from the anti-roll bar linkages, particularly clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn ball joints or broken dust covers. Inspect the oil leak thoroughly—check under the vehicle for dark, tarry deposits and ensure no oil is pooling under the engine bay or transmission area. The corroded brake pipe should be examined for structural integrity; if the swelling or grease buildup persists, it may indicate internal corrosion or contamination, necessitating brake system inspection. Additionally, verify that all lamps—including the rear position and stop lamps—are functioning correctly, as these failures were major defects in previous MOTs. For the buyer’s practical checks, given the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage, attention should be paid to tyre condition, particularly sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity over time. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal suspension misalignment or camber issues, and ensure the tyres are within legal limits without excessive tread depth. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as older vehicles like this often suffer from reduced performance or failure due to prolonged standing or high internal resistance. Fluid levels and condition must be assessed—coolant should be replaced every 2–3 years regardless of mileage, while brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years to prevent corrosion of brake components. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, especially for oil changes, filter replacements, and timing belt servicing, as these are critical for long-term reliability.