2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · HW59 FWP

The 2009 Fiat 500 presents a stable and broadly improving mechanical picture as of its most recent MOT on 23 March 2026 at 37,534 miles. That test passed with only minor advisories, a notable clean-up from the cluster of defects recorded in the 2023 tests. The trend suggests the previous owner addressed the immediate failures promptly, as the same mileage test on 20 March 2023 failed on wiper, headlamp aim, washer, and exhaust issues, yet the retest later that same day passed. Since then, the vehicle has sailed through two consecutive clean or near-clean annual tests, indicating consistent upkeep rather than neglect. Mileage accumulation tells a clear story of very light use. The car covered just 1,762 miles between March 2025 and March 2026, and only 1,021 miles in the year prior to that. Over its seventeen-year life, the total of 37,534 miles works out to roughly 2,208 miles annually, well below the UK average. The record shows no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the MOT mileage pattern, which supports genuine low use rather than a rolled-back odometer. That said, prolonged periods of standing can introduce its own issues, particularly with perished rubber components and brake corrosion, which the record does reflect. The recurring theme across the history is gradual wear in front suspension bushes. Both the nearside and offside front upper Macpherson strut pins or bushes were flagged as worn in the March 2026 test, and the same pattern appeared on the front suspension arm rear bushes in March 2024. These are not yet causing excessive movement, but the repetition suggests the front end is entering a phase where bush replacement will likely be needed within the next year or two. A buyer should physically check for clunking over bumps and uneven tyre wear as early indicators. Beyond the suspension, the March 2026 test flagged a slightly damaged or perishing nearside rear tyre and a damaged offside rear brake cable. Both were advisory only, but the brake cable condition warrants a close visual inspection for fraying or corrosion, especially given the car's low mileage and potential for standing. The rear registration plate deterioration is cosmetic. Overall, this is a well-maintained, low-mileage city car with no structural or safety-critical red flags, but the front suspension bushes and rear brake cable deserve attention before purchase.