2010 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · MK10 WAU

A recurring theme of suspension wear and brake performance shortfalls runs through the MOT history, despite the most recent November 2025 test returning a clean pass. The 2024 inspection flagged an excessively worn off‑side rear shock absorber bush as a major failure, while the same year’s advisory noted light oil misting from the nearside front shock and a slightly worn nearside rear shock bush. Earlier, the October 2023 test recorded major brake deficiencies – inadequate rear service brake effort, parking brake inefficiency and rear‑axle brake imbalance – all of which required remedial work before the vehicle could be re‑tested and passed. These patterns suggest that the car’s suspension components and braking system have been points of concern over the past few years, even though the latest pass indicates those specific faults have been addressed or are currently within acceptable limits. At 82 081 mi spread over 16 years the average annual mileage is roughly 5 130 mi, well below the typical usage for a small city car of this age. Such low utilisation can be indicative of periods of limited driving or extended storage, both of which allow rubber bushings, seals and brake linings to deteriorate with age irrespective of mileage. The relatively modest mileage does not eliminate the need to inspect age‑related wear, particularly in the suspension bushings and shock absorbers that have already shown premature degradation, nor does it guarantee that the braking components are free from latent wear despite the recent pass. When evaluating the suspension, concentrate on the rear shock absorber bushes and the front shock’s oil seal. On a drive, feel for excessive bounce after a bump, listen for a steady oil‑dripping sound from the front, and check for any clunking or looseness when the wheels are rocked at the corners of the car. Inspect the rear suspension for play in the trailing arms and any uneven tyre wear that could betray a worn bush. Because the 2024 advisory highlighted a slightly worn nearside rear shock bush, anticipate a degree of compliance loss that may manifest as a softer ride on that side. Brake assessment should start with a firm, progressive pedal feel and a short stopping distance; any sponginess, pedal travel beyond normal, or pull to one side could indicate lingering issues from the 2023 failures. Test the parking brake by applying it on a slight incline and noting whether it holds without slippage. Finally, a minor exhaust leak noted in 2020 may still produce a faint ticking at idle or a faint sulphur smell under acceleration, so a brief engine rev and a visual inspection of the exhaust manifold and pipe joints are advisable. The front registration plate’s slight deterioration is purely cosmetic but should be replaced to meet legal standards.