2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · LS09 DNX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a trend of accelerating surface corrosion and suspension wear. While the most recent test in February 2026 at 71,317 miles passed, it flagged a high volume of advisories related to the lower chassis and braking system. The parking brake efficiency has consistently hovered at the absolute legal limit since at least November 2023, indicating a system that is reaching the end of its operational tolerance and requires proactive adjustment. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 71,317 miles is significantly low, averaging approximately 4,200 miles per year. This low usage pattern likely explains the perishing of rubber components, as seen in the November 2024 report where both rear tyres showed signs of cracking. However, the gap of only 1,617 miles between November 2024 and February 2026 suggests the car is driven infrequently for short trips, which often leads to the periods of sitting that contribute to the observed corrosion on non-structural but mechanical parts. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear subframe and Macpherson strut assemblies, as corrosion is a recurring theme across the last three tests. The tester noted corrosion on the top bushes and nuts of both front struts in 2026, alongside corroded coil springs and a worn offside front suspension arm. While these issues are currently classified as not seriously weakened, the persistent presence of rust on multiple mounting points and the exhaust box suggests the vehicle is susceptible to environmental degradation. Immediate attention should also be paid to the parking brake mechanism, as the record shows a consistent failure to improve efficiency over three years. The failure in November 2024 due to a worn nearside front tyre also indicates that basic consumable maintenance has been reactive rather than preventative. Given the low mileage and age of the vehicle, the buyer should verify the structural integrity of the subframe to ensure the noted surface rust has not progressed into deep scaling or perforation.