2015 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · GL64 OFW

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-12-17, resulted in a failure due to major defects in the front lower suspension arms, specifically excessive wear in the rear bushes of both the nearside and offside arms. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s prior MOT history, where only advisories related to tyre wear were recorded, and no major failures were noted. The trend over the past five years has been predominantly stable, with only tyre-related advisories appearing consistently, suggesting that the suspension system was previously in a more acceptable condition. However, the failure of the suspension bushes indicates a critical issue that has not been addressed, and this must be rectified promptly to restore roadworthiness, as worn suspension bushes can lead to uneven ride quality, excessive steering play, and premature wear on tyres, brakes, and drivetrain components. The recorded mileage of 21,089 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 1,917 miles per year. This is notably lower than typical expectations for a vehicle of this age, which often accumulates between 5,000 and 10,000 miles annually under normal use. The low mileage could imply that the car has been stored for extended periods, particularly in the years following the 2021 MOT, where no defects were recorded, suggesting potential standing corrosion or neglect. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee the absence of hidden wear, especially in components like suspension bushes, which can degrade silently over time even with minimal movement. The rapid progression of suspension bush failure in recent MOTs—from a passing test to a major failure in just a few months—also suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to minor impacts, excessive loads, or improper storage conditions, accelerating wear. Given the critical suspension failure and recurring tyre advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system. The worn rear bushes in the lower arms require immediate replacement, as they will likely lead to clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, uneven ride height, and potential binding of the steering or wheel alignment. During a test drive, listen for metallic clunks or rattles in the front suspension, particularly when navigating rough roads or turning sharply, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel. Additionally, inspect the front tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The cracked or perishing rear tyres, noted in previous MOTs, should be replaced as soon as possible, as sidewall damage can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of blowouts. For the buyer, given the vehicle’s age and the history of tyre wear advisories, a comprehensive physical inspection is essential. Check the tyres for any remaining sidewall damage or signs of perishing, which can compromise their ability to withstand high speeds or sharp turns. The low annual mileage suggests the vehicle may have been stored for long periods, so inspect for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the suspension components, exhaust system, and wheel arches. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, which may require a deep discharge or replacement. Since the vehicle has not been serviced within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, check for any missing or outdated service book stamps, particularly for fluid changes—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—all of which degrade over time, even with low mileage. Finally, ensure the exhaust system is free from leaks or structural damage, as emissions-related advisories or failures could indicate catalytic converter or manifold issues, which may not be apparent during a routine inspection.