2016 Fiat Doblo 1.4L Petrol · LS66 VGA

The most recent DVSA MOT recorded on 14 October 2025 resulted in a failure, listing major defects for excessive carbon‑monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions, a non‑functional engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp, and an inoperative off‑side stop lamp. Earlier that same day a pass was logged with no defects, indicating that remedial work may have been attempted but was not sufficient to clear the serious faults. Over the preceding three years the pattern has moved from clean passes (2024, 2022) to a series of advisories in 2023 and a failure in 2023, then back to a pass in 2024, before the current failure – a clear sign of a deteriorating maintenance trend, especially concerning the exhaust system and engine management electronics. At ten years old the Doblò has logged 79 222 miles, averaging roughly 7 900 miles per annum. This is below the typical UK average of about 10‑12 000 miles a year, suggesting the vehicle has been lightly used or has spent periods stationary. Low annual mileage can mitigate wear on tyres, brakes and suspension, but prolonged inactivity can promote rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of metal components, particularly in the exhaust and chassis. The modest mileage therefore does not offset the seriousness of the recent emissions and electrical faults. A prospective buyer should give the exhaust system a thorough visual and audible inspection. Look for rusted or perforated back‑box, cracked pipework or loose mounts that could be the source of the emissions failure; any hissing or sulphur smell on start‑up would confirm a leak. Verify that the engine MIL illuminates only when a fault is present – a persistent warning light indicates a fault in the engine control unit, oxygen sensors or catalytic converter that will need diagnostic scanning and likely component replacement. The off‑side stop lamp must be functional; a simple bulb check may reveal a blown unit or faulty wiring. The advisories from 2023 point to front suspension ball‑joint play, worn front arm bushings and rear axle swivel pins – feel for clunking or looseness when applying steering input and when the vehicle is lifted, and inspect for uneven tyre wear that may betray mis‑alignment. The recurring oil‑drip advisory, possibly from the sump plug, should be traced; any oil on the under‑tray or around the plug suggests a seal failure that could lead to low oil level and engine wear if not corrected. Brake discs were noted as approaching wear limits in 2022; measure disc thickness and listen for squeal or shudder under braking, as thin or warped discs will need replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and the mixed MOT record, a full pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential. Confirm the condition of the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry rot, especially on the near‑side front tyre that was previously close to the legal limit. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for signs of sulphation, particularly if the car has been stored for long periods. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and any milky appearance that would indicate contamination. Finally, ensure the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any previous MOT failures have been rectified with appropriate parts and workmanship before committing to purchase.