2012 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · LB62 AFF

The most recent MOT tests on this 2012 Fiat 500, conducted just ten months ago on 16 September 2025, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects. Both tests at 41,656 miles were marked as failed, yet no specific faults were logged—an anomaly that suggests either an administrative error or a vehicle that narrowly missed critical thresholds. The previous cycle in September 2024 also ended in failure at 35,531 miles, reinforcing the likelihood of a recurring issue that evaded explicit documentation. While the 2023 test at 23,602 miles passed without incident, this inconsistency at higher mileages implies potential wear in components that only manifest under load or after prolonged use. The absence of advisories or advisories in the latest tests further complicates assessment, as they might have clarified the nature of the failures. The recorded mileage of 41,656 miles over 14 years—approximately 2,975 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either minimal usage or extended periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 11,929 miles, covered in just over a year, while the subsequent 6,125 miles between 2024 and 2025 were accumulated in under a year. This uneven accumulation could indicate sporadic driving, which may exacerbate wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components due to infrequent stress relief. The lack of intermediate MOTs or service records means there’s no visibility into whether critical fluids were changed or whether the vehicle was stored with protective measures during its inactive periods. Given the repeated failures without clear documentation, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as binding or uneven wear is a common cause of MOT failures in this model. The suspension should be scrutinised for deteriorated bushes, worn coil springs, or excessive play in the steering rack, as these failings often go undetected until they impair handling. Corrosion in the subframe, sills, or wheel arches—common in urban-stored Fiats—could compromise structural integrity, so a thorough underbody check is essential. The absence of advisories in recent tests does not preclude hidden issues; a pre-purchase diagnostic should include a road test to assess for uneven tyre wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension problems. Given the low mileage, attention to consumables like brake pads, wiper blades, and fluid levels is also warranted, though these are less likely to be the source of the repeated failures.