2012 Fiat 500 0.9L Petrol · LS12 YRK

The latest MOT test on 27 November 2025 resulted in a pass, although this followed an immediate failure on the same day due to a major defect regarding an excessively worn offside front suspension arm bush. The overall maintenance trend indicates a vehicle that is beginning to show its age, with a recurring pattern of suspension deterioration and tyre degradation over the last several years. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the progression from minor advisories to a major failure suggests that the chassis and suspension components are reaching the end of their natural service life and require closer monitoring. With 54,655 recorded miles over approximately 14 years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 3,904 miles per year, which is significantly lower than the UK national average. While low mileage is often seen as a positive, in this instance, it suggests a pattern of light use or extended periods of standing. This is corroborated by the MOT history, which repeatedly notes tyres cracking or perishing rather than simply wearing down through use. Low-mileage vehicles are frequently more susceptible to the degradation of rubber components and the stagnation of essential fluids than those driven on a regular basis. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front and rear suspension systems. The history reveals persistent issues with suspension arm bushes and Macpherson strut pins, which eventually led to a major failure. During a test drive, listen for clunks, knocks, or creaks when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. The tyre history is also a point of concern, with repeated mentions of edge wear and perishing. This suggests either poor wheel alignment or, more likely, the rubber hardening due to age and inactivity. Inspect all four tyre sidewalls for fine cracks and verify the tread depth across the full width of the tyre to ensure there is no irregular wear. Given the low annual mileage and the age of the vehicle, several other areas require scrutiny. The 2021 record mentioned pitted brake discs and steering rack play, both of which are common symptoms of a vehicle that has spent significant time stationary. Check for heavy brake disc corrosion or binding calipers that could cause the brakes to drag. The mention of an oil leak in 2020 and a worn drive belt in 2021 suggests that calendar-based maintenance may have been overlooked in favour of mileage-based intervals. Verify the service history for evidence of regular oil changes and coolant flushes, and check the health of the 12V battery, as low-use vehicles often suffer from premature battery failure.