2010 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · MT59 AAE

The Fiat 500’s most recent MOT, conducted on 16 September 2025 at 92,011 miles , passed but revealed a cluster of persistent issues that suggest ongoing neglect rather than active deterioration. The tester flagged oil leaks from the rear main seal and front lower exhaust flex joint , both of which were absent in the 2023 July test at 82,607 miles , indicating they developed within the past two years. Structural corrosion remains a recurring concern, with Macpherson strut mountings (front and rear) and the subframe consistently noted as corroded but not yet structurally compromised. The nearside front wheel distortion and ball joint play (first recorded in August 2022 at 80,077 miles ) imply long-term suspension misalignment, likely contributing to uneven tyre wear. While no failures were recorded, the 2025 test’s advisories —particularly the oil and exhaust leaks—demand immediate attention to prevent secondary damage. The vehicle’s low annual mileage (around 5,751 miles per year) is unusual for its age, with gaps between tests spanning 12 to 18 months —longer than the DVSA’s recommended 12-month intervals. The 2023 July test at 82,607 miles followed a 13-month gap since the 2022 August test , during which no defects were logged, suggesting the car may have sat unused or seen minimal driving. The 2024 September test at 86,136 miles (just 3,529 miles added in a year) further supports this pattern. Such low mileage typically reduces wear on drivetrain components but accelerates corrosion risks due to prolonged exposure to moisture and road salt, particularly in suspension and exhaust areas. A buyer should prioritise a detailed suspension inspection , focusing on the Macpherson struts, ball joints, and subframe corrosion —all of which show a history of advisory-level deterioration. The oil leaks , particularly from the rear main seal, require urgent verification to rule out engine damage, while the exhaust flex joint and back box corrosion should be checked for exhaust gas leaks or structural weakening. The nearside front wheel distortion may indicate past impact damage or prolonged misalignment, warranting a tyre and brake disc check for uneven wear. Given the recurring advisories and the vehicle’s age , a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to assess whether the issues are cosmetic or indicative of deeper mechanical or structural concerns.