2013 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · MF63 FVO

The vehicle most recently presented for test on 4 November 2025 and achieved a Pass, although the same date records a prior Fail with a Major defect for a major leak of exhaust gases from the front exhaust flex joint. The advisories recorded at this test for corrosion to the nearside and offside rear suspension spring mountings in the prescribed areas are notable; while deemed not yet excessive, such corrosion tends to progress and warrants close visual inspection and future monitoring. Reviewing the broader pattern, this Fiat has accumulated multiple advisories and several Major failures across consecutive annual tests covering suspension component wear, tyre condition, engine oil leakage, exhaust integrity, and parking brake efficiency, which collectively indicates a maintenance trend that is best described as worsening rather than stable. A clean record in 2023 and 2022 is overshadowed by the subsequent appearance of progressively serious defects at each following test. With 119,540 miles recorded over a thirteen-year life, the vehicle is averaging approximately 9,195 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and points to regular use rather than extended standing periods. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT cadence that would suggest long periods of inactivity, and mileage appears to have accumulated steadily. This level of use is consistent with general wear on consumables, friction materials, and drivetrain components, and it means that age-related degradation of rubber, plastics, and corrosion-prone steel items should still be expected in addition to mileage-driven wear. Given the recurring suspension advisories and the Major failure for excessively worn inner suspension component pins or bushes at both front corners in November 2022, a prospective buyer should undertake a careful road test and under-bonnet inspection. Listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, as worn suspension pins and bushes on the Fiat 500 are a well-documented weakness and can compromise handling and braking stability. Check for play in the front suspension joints by hand with the wheels off the ground, and examine the rear spring mounting areas for any progression of the corrosion noted in 2025, including surface rust turning into deeper pitting or flaking that could eventually compromise structural integrity. The November 2025 exhaust flex joint failure should also be confirmed as properly rectified, ideally with an invoice or warranty evidence, and the joint should be inspected for any signs of blow or soot deposits indicating a recurrence. On the test drive, listen for any exhaust drone or ticking under acceleration that could suggest a further leak. Beyond the recorded defects, attention should be given to the engine oil leak that resulted in the 2024 Major failure, verifying that no fresh oil is present on the sump, cam cover, or underside of the engine, and that the oil level on the dipstick is correct. The parking brake efficiency failure in 2023 should be confirmed as resolved by testing the lever travel and firmness on an incline. Tyres should be examined for both tread depth and age-related perishing or sidewall cracking, particularly on the rear axle where a dangerous bulging tyre was previously recorded, and all four corners should be checked for uneven wear patterns which may indicate alignment or suspension geometry issues following the worn bushes. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, the buyer should also verify the age and condition of the 12V battery, confirm recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil in line with calendar-based service schedules, and inspect the brake discs and calipers for corrosion and uneven pad wear, particularly if the car has spent any extended period standing. Finally, the advisory regarding the offside door handle should be checked for secure operation, as loose interior or exterior trim can indicate general deterioration of the vehicle's fixtures.