2016 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · HJ66 WWM

A history of frequent MOT failures and recurring mechanical interventions characterises this Fiat 500, pointing to a vehicle that has required consistent remedial work to remain roadworthy. The latest test concluded with a pass on the twenty-ninth of October 2025, though this followed a failure two days prior that caught major defects including an exhaust gas leak, incomplete emissions testing, a worn nearside front suspension arm bush, and an excessively worn nearside rear shock absorber bush alongside a damaged windscreen. Reviewing the historical record reveals a persistent pattern of suspension component wear, exhaust degradation, and braking system advisories cropping up year after year, indicating that components on this chassis wear out regularly rather than remaining stable over long periods. Accumulating 66,362 miles over its ten-year lifespan yields an average of roughly 6,636 miles per annum, representing entirely typical, moderate usage for this class of city car. Testing has occurred annually without any extended multi-year gaps or suspicious lapses in the record, showing that the vehicle has been subjected to continuous seasonal operation on UK roads. This mileage accrual rate means that while the engine and drivetrain have not been subjected to extreme commercial use, the chassis and suspension components have experienced standard urban wear cycles, which aligns with the repeated rubber bush and damper advisories noted in the testing history. Prospective buyers must prioritise a rigorous physical inspection of the suspension and steering linkages, focusing specifically on the front suspension arm bushes and rear shock absorber bushes that have repeatedly triggered failure and advisory notices. During a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when navigating speed humps or rough road surfaces, and pay attention to whether the steering pulls to one side or feels vague. The front brake discs, which were previously noted as worn, pitted, or scored, should be physically inspected for adequate thickness and evaluated for any vibration or shudder transmitted through the brake pedal under moderate deceleration. Additionally, inspect the entire exhaust system from the manifold back to ensure that the previous exhaust leaks and corrosion have been thoroughly repaired rather than temporarily patched. Verify that all doors open and close correctly from both inside and outside the vehicle, given historical issues with door handles and latches, and check that the windscreen washer system and all lighting units operate without fault. Finally, inspect the windscreen for the minor damage noted in recent tests to determine if a full glass replacement will be required in the near future.