2018 Fiat 124 1.4L Petrol · MX68 LXC

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2018 Fiat 124 was conducted on 2025-09-05, with a passing result following a previous failure in the same month. This indicates a return to compliance after a minor technical issue with the offside front position lamp, which is a straightforward bulb failure easily rectified. The overall maintenance trend over the past four years shows a pattern of consistent advisories rather than outright failures, with the most critical recurring issue being the rear brake discs exhibiting wear, pitting, or scoring but not to a point of structural weakness. While the 2024 MOT was clean, the advisories from previous years suggest a gradual progression in wear, particularly on brakes and tyres, which is expected at this mileage and age. The presence of multiple tyre wear advisories—particularly on the front tyres—points to either uneven loading or alignment issues that have persisted over time, warranting further attention. The recorded mileage of 41,769 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,221 miles per year, which is notably below the industry average for a car of this age. Such low mileage can result from extended periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended durations without regular use, leading to potential issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to high-stress driving conditions, which might otherwise accelerate wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components. However, low mileage alone does not negate the need for thorough inspection, as prolonged standing can exacerbate problems like brake pad binding, tyre sidewall perishing, or battery degradation over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the brakes, tyres, and suspension. The recurring rear brake disc advisories indicate that the discs are already showing signs of wear and may require replacement within the next 10,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on driving habits. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, particularly on the rear, and check for uneven brake pad wear or binding calipers, which could suggest misalignment or warping. The front tyre wear advisories, especially the inner edge wear, suggest potential alignment or camber issues—inspect the wheels for misalignment and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate suspension or steering problems. Additionally, verify that the offside front position lamp has been repaired and is functioning correctly, as this failure caused the 2025-09-05 MOT failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, the low annual mileage profile necessitates attention to fluid degradation and structural integrity due to prolonged inactivity. Inspect the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid for signs of sludge, contamination, or degradation, as fluids can break down over months of disuse. Check the 12V battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery holds a charge when static, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. Examine the suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, for stiffness or excessive play, as prolonged standing can cause bushings to dry out or springs to lose resilience. Finally, assess the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from age even at low mileage, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp or humid environment, inspect the undercarriage for signs of rust, particularly around wheel arches, exhaust components, and suspension mounts.