2004 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · HN54 DZB

The vehicle’s most recent MOT, conducted just five months ago on 2 February 2026 at 72,641 miles, passed without any recorded defects. This suggests the car was in compliant condition at that time, though the immediate preceding test on 28 January 2026—just four days earlier at 72,640 miles—was a failure with no defects logged. This anomaly is unusual, as consecutive failures without explanation are rare and may indicate administrative error or a test centre oversight. The pattern before this was stable, with no defects recorded in the February 2025 or February 2024 tests, implying consistent compliance with MOT standards during those periods. The lack of advisories or recurring faults in the record does not preclude underlying issues, but the absence of failures beyond the single 2026 anomaly is notable. The recorded mileage of 72,641 miles over 22 years—approximately 3,300 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either very light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The mileage increment between the 2024 and 2025 tests was just 744 miles over a year, and another 601 miles between the 2025 and 2026 tests. Such minimal progression could indicate the car was stored for extended periods, which may accelerate wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and battery health due to lack of movement. Conversely, if the vehicle was actively driven, the low mileage might imply cautious usage, but it also raises questions about whether critical services—such as brake fluid changes, differential maintenance, or corrosion checks—were performed regularly. Given the lack of recorded defects in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas that are not routinely tested. Focus on the suspension, particularly the condition of the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are often overlooked in low-mileage vehicles but can degrade rapidly when unused. Check for binding or uneven brake calipers and discs, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods, as moisture and corrosion can accelerate wear. The structural integrity of the chassis and sills should also be examined for signs of rust, particularly around wheel arches and the rear axle, where salt damage accumulates over time. The battery and alternator should be tested for capacity, as prolonged inactivity can lead to parasitic drain or sulphation. While the MOT record shows no failures, these components are not always thoroughly inspected during a test.