2016 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · GP66 FXT

The 2016 FIAT 500 presents a mixed but broadly stable maintenance picture as of its most recent MOT on 4 November 2025 at 54,117 miles. The vehicle passed that test, yet two advisory items persist from earlier inspections: both front shock absorbers are repeatedly flagged for light oil misting, and the offside front Macpherson strut top mount or bush shows wear that has been noted across multiple tests since November 2023. This is not an acute failure pattern, but the recurrence suggests the front suspension components have been operating with degraded damping and mounting integrity for at least two years without renewal. The November 2025 test recorded no new failures, and the advisory list is shorter than in February 2025, which is a modestly encouraging sign. The mileage profile is notably low for a ten-year-old vehicle. At 54,117 miles, the annualised average sits around 5,412 miles per year. The record shows a jump of roughly 10,000 miles between the November 2023 test at 38,404 miles and the December 2022 test at 28,258 miles, then a further 5,659 miles accrued between November 2023 and February 2025, followed by no mileage increase at all between the February 2025 and November 2025 tests. That flat mileage reading over nine months raises the possibility the car has been standing for extended periods, which can cause localised corrosion of brake discs, tyre sidewall deterioration, and seized components, even though the overall mileage is low. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on the front suspension and braking system. The persistent oil misting on both front shock absorbers indicates the seals are compromised, and replacement units should be budgeted for. The worn Macpherson strut top mount or bush on the offside front warrants close examination for play, knocking under load, and any corresponding uneven tyre wear. The February 2025 test flagged a nail in the nearside front tyre and a fluctuating nearside front service brake, which points to a possible sticking caliper or uneven disc wear; the condition of the front brake discs and pads should be measured for thickness and scoring. The rear tyres showed cracking and perishing advisories in February 2025, so sidewall condition and date codes need checking, particularly if the car has been stationary. Oil misting around the oil filter housing was also noted at that test, so the engine should be inspected for any developing leak at the filter housing gasket or cam cover seals.