2012 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · GL12 FSJ

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 11 June 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded. Reviewing the history from 2022 to 2026, the overall maintenance trend appears stable. While there were intermittent advisories regarding suspension components and structural corrosion in previous years, the clean result in the latest test suggests that these issues have either been rectified or are currently managed within acceptable safety limits. With 84,703 recorded miles over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,050 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a city car of this vintage, indicating that it has avoided the excessive wear associated with high-mileage commuting while also avoiding the risks of prolonged standing, such as perished seals or seized calipers. This balanced usage suggests the drivetrain and engine components should be in a predictable state of wear, although rubber components will still be subject to age-related degradation. The MOT history highlights recurring issues with the front shock absorbers, specifically oil misting on both the offside and nearside units between 2022 and 2024. Although not flagged in the most recent test, a prospective buyer should inspect the damper bodies for any fresh fluid leakage and listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Additionally, the 2025 advisory regarding offside front tyre edge wear suggests a potential misalignment of the tracking or worn suspension bushes. During a test drive, ensure the vehicle does not pull to one side and physically inspect the tyre treads for uneven wear patterns. Particular attention must be paid to the rear sub-frame, which was noted as corroded in 2025. While the inspector deemed it not seriously weakened at that time, corrosion on these structural components can progress if left untreated. It is recommended to inspect the underside of the vehicle for surface rust or deeper pitting. Given the age of the vehicle, the buyer should also verify the service history for calendar-based maintenance, specifically the timing belt and water pump intervals, as these are critical failure points regardless of the moderate mileage. Finally, check the brake discs for surface corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding.