2018 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · KN07 STY

A consistent pattern of braking and suspension advisories has emerged across four consecutive MOT tests on this 2018 Fiat 500, even though it has passed every examination without a single failure since first testing eligible. The most recent test on 15 June 2026 recorded no defects at all, which is the first clean pass in the sequence; however, the preceding 2024 test alone flagged four advisories, and the 2023 test produced four advisories plus a minor wiper blade defect. The brake cables have been flagged in 2022 and again in 2024, both sides showing split outer casings, which points to a wear issue that has not been resolved between tests. The nearside front shock absorber has been flagged for oil misting in both 2023 and 2024, suggesting progressive seal deterioration, while the rear exhaust mounting and a minor exhaust gas leak at the rear back box join appeared in 2023, with the clamp deteriorating into a corroded and broken state by 2024. Front brake discs were already showing pitting and scoring in 2021, which is typical wear on a car of this age but worth tracking given the cumulative braking component activity since. Mileage of 72,976 over roughly eight years equates to an annual accumulation of around 9,122 miles, which sits squarely in the normal range for a small city-oriented hatchback of this vintage. There are no significant gaps in the testing record and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent with steady daily use rather than extended standing periods. Mechanically, this rate of use tends to keep the engine, clutch and gearbox working regularly, which is generally favourable, but it also means the consumables such as brake components, tyres and suspension items have been accumulating normal wear at a predictable pace. The fact that front discs were already pitted at the 2021 test and tyre wear was approaching the legal limit by 2023 suggests the braking and tyre wear rate is in line with what one would expect at this mileage, but there is no slack for further deterioration before intervention becomes necessary. For a prospective buyer, the brake cable advisories warrant a physical check underneath the vehicle to confirm whether the outer casings have been replaced since the 2024 test or whether the exposed inner cables are beginning to corrode or fray. Listen for any squealing, binding or uneven pull from the handbrake on a test drive, particularly on an incline, as a failing cable can stretch or seize within its damaged sheath. Inspect the rear handbrake mechanism for full engagement and release, and verify that both wheels lock and release symmetrically when applied. The nearside front shock absorber oil misting should prompt a close look at the unit itself for fresh oil residue on the body and at the coil spring for any signs of corrosion, particularly given the Fiat 500 is known for subframe and suspension component corrosion in older examples. Push down firmly on each front corner and release; if the vehicle bounces more than once or settles unevenly, the damper may have deteriorated beyond the light misting stage. Also listen for clonking or knocking over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, which would indicate worn top mounts, drop links or anti-roll bar bushes that have not yet been flagged but are typical at this mileage. The exhaust advisories from 2023 and 2024 require a hands-on inspection underneath the rear section, paying particular attention to the back box joint for any active escaping gas, and checking the mounting clamp for integrity. A rattling on start-up or under load, or a change in exhaust note, would indicate the mounting has finally failed or the joint has worsened. Given the front brake disc advisories from 2021, the discs should be measured for remaining thickness and runout, as pitted and scored surfaces can cause pedal judder under heavy braking. On the road, test from around 40 mph with a firm, steady pedal application to feel for vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal, which would confirm disc warping. Finally, conduct a thorough walkaround for tyre wear pattern, as both front tyres were close to the legal limit in 2023, and uneven inner or outer edge wear on a front-wheel-drive car of this type can indicate worn suspension bushes or steering rack wear rather than simple age-related tread loss.