2006 Fiat Punto 1.2L Petrol · GL06 ABV

Chronic rear suspension wear is the defining mechanical thread running through this Fiat Punto's MOT record, with both rear coil springs flagged for corrosion as far back as 2017 and a nearside rear spring actually fracturing, forcing a fail that same year. That fracture was remedied to allow a pass shortly afterwards, but the fact that both springs were already corroding simultaneously suggests the corrosion was environmental rather than isolated, and any replacement units have now had nine further years to suffer the same fate. The 2021 pass shows the roadworthiness trend had stabilised into a relatively minor issue set, but the broader history is one of recurring lighting defects (headlamp aim, lens condition, position lamp and stop lamp failures all in the same 2021 cycle), front brake disc surface deterioration noted in 2020, and persistent front tyre wear issues recorded across multiple tests. The single advisory-free pass in 2015 is the outlier rather than the rule; the rest of the history shows a vehicle that has needed ongoing attention to keep it within test limits. Recorded mileage of 68,245 against a 2006 registration equates to roughly 3,400 miles per year averaged across its life, which is notably low and consistent with light domestic use rather than regular long-distance running. The MOT testing record itself has visible gaps: after 2021, no further tests are recorded up to today's date of September 2026, meaning the vehicle has either been off the road for nearly five years or has not been presented for testing at all. A five-year lay-up on a car of this age carries obvious mechanical implications for the 12V battery, brake hydraulic seals, tyre sidewalls, fuel system, coolant, and oil, all of which degrade during extended standing. Even allowing for genuine low use, this kind of absence from testing is a significant flag, and a prospective buyer should establish definitively whether the vehicle is currently SORN or has simply been untested. Inspection priorities should focus squarely on the rear axle, since corroded coil springs on a Punto of this vintage are notorious for progressing to fracture and for taking the shock absorber mounts with them. On a ramp or with the wheels off, examine both rear springs for surface pitting, flaking, and any sagging that has reduced ride height, and check the shock absorber bodies for fresh oil misting that would indicate renewed seal failure following the light misting noted in 2017. Pay particular attention to the nearside front spring, which was the one that actually broke, and inspect its rubber seats and the surrounding strut body for any signs of corrosion migration. The handbrake cable noted as split and corroding within its casing in 2017 is another item that will have only worsened with time and should be physically operated to confirm full travel and positive locking without the cable stretching or seizing in the outer sheath. On the road, listen for clonking over uneven surfaces from the rear suspension, which would indicate perished bushes or loose spring seats, and feel for any sagging at the rear when stationary, a classic sign of coil spring fatigue. The front brake discs noted as pitted and scored in 2020 will almost certainly need replacement by now, so test for pedal judder under moderate braking and any significant grinding or pulsing through the steering wheel. Steering pull, uneven tyre wear, or a vague front end would tie back to the persistent nearside front tyre wear pattern seen across multiple tests and could indicate worn suspension linkages or top mounts. Finally, check for the coolant leak previously flagged on the offside front by inspecting the area around the alternator and coolant hoses for staining or fresh drips once the engine is warm, and verify that all exterior lamps, particularly the nearside front headlamp and stop lamps, are functioning correctly as those exact items have failed before.