2016 Fiat Panda 0.9L Petrol · MH65 VEX

The most recent MOT on 26 February 2026 at 43,137 miles returned a pass, though the maintenance trend reveals a worsening corrosion profile in the rear suspension. The offside rear coil spring corrosion has persisted since at least the February 2025 test at 41,624 miles, when both rear coil springs were noted as corroded. The February 2026 test added a split nearside rear handbrake outer cable, indicating that parking brake components are now deteriorating alongside the ongoing spring corrosion. This progression from general corrosion to specific cable failure suggests unchecked salt exposure or inadequate preventive care. Mileage accumulation has remained consistently low across the vehicle's ten-year life, averaging approximately 4,314 miles annually. The odometer advanced only 1,513 miles between February 2025 and February 2026, and 1,366 miles between January 2024 and February 2025. Such minimal use can mask problems; brake components seize from disuse, oil seals dry out, and corrosion accelerates in damp conditions without regular driving to clear moisture. The January 2024 advisory noting rear service brakes as "keen" and grabbing slightly supports this interpretation, suggesting caliper or shoe binding after periods of standing. Recurring oil leaks appeared in both the January 2024 and February 2023 tests, though this fault has not resurfaced since. The February 2023 test also flagged worn front lower suspension arm rear bushes, a wear item that has not been mentioned subsequently, whether replaced or simply no longer deemed advisory-level. Tyre and lighting defects have been minor and isolated. A prospective purchaser should prioritise inspection of the rear suspension and braking systems. Both rear coil springs require close examination for structural integrity given their corroded state across two consecutive annual tests; spring fracture would constitute an immediate failure. The handbrake cable demands replacement before winter exposure worsens the split outer casing. The front brake discs, flagged as worn and pitted in January 2022 at 34,228 miles, may now be significantly aged given the elapsed four years and low mileage, so disc thickness and run-out should be verified. The absence of any structural corrosion advisories is reassuring, though the persistent rear spring corrosion warrants checking of surrounding chassis members for hidden degradation. Evidence of the oil leak source should be traced, as its disappearance from advisories may reflect sealing rather than repair.