2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · LT59 HTE

The roadworthiness of this vehicle is currently concerning, reflecting a trend of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. The most recent MOT test conducted in February 2024 at 125,870 miles resulted in a significant failure with a high density of safety-critical mechanical and structural defects. While the vehicle passed in early 2023, the sheer volume of failures in the 2024 test indicates that components are being neglected until they reach a point of legal non-roadworthiness. At 125,870 miles over 17 years, the vehicle averages approximately 7,400 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for an older hatchback. However, the mileage gap between February 2023 and February 2024 shows nearly 10,000 miles driven in a single year. This period of higher use likely accelerated wear on aging components. The transition from a clean pass in 2023 to a catastrophic failure in 2024 suggests that the state of repair has escalated from minor cosmetic issues to serious failures in the suspension and braking systems. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems, as these areas show recurring weaknesses. The February 2024 test flagged serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers, a worn anti-roll bar ball joint, and distorted road wheels. Previous tests in 2022 also identified corroded rear coil springs and damaged Macpherson struts. The braking system is another major concern, with records of binding offside service brakes, an inoperative parking brake, and overall axle imbalance. These recurring issues suggest the underlying chassis components are aged and under significant stress. The structural integrity and exterior condition also require scrutiny given the heavy exhaust corrosion noted in early 2022. Furthermore, the history shows persistent issues with basic hardware, such as the driver-side door failing to open from the outside and multiple obstructions of the windscreen view. Given that the last MOT was over two years ago, the buyer needs to verify that the faults identified in 2024 were properly rectified and that no new structural corrosion or mechanical play has developed since then.