2006 Fiat Doblo 1.2L Diesel · NJ06 STZ

A persistent pattern of initial MOT failures followed by immediate repairs defines the recorded testing history of this vehicle, with recurring faults involving broken lighting assemblies, exhaust gas leaks, and front suspension defects. On 18 February 2022, the vehicle secured its most recent MOT pass at 105,333 miles, following a failure just eight days prior that logged a dangerous defect for a seized Macpherson strut top bearing alongside major exhaust leakage. While the defect trends show that faults were routinely addressed to secure a pass certificate, the overall history highlights ongoing mechanical degradation across running gear, exhaust components, and exterior trim rather than a clean baseline. Accumulating 105,333 miles over two decades equates to a low average of approximately 5,267 miles annually, pointing toward light commercial or local domestic usage. However, the complete absence of MOT records following the February 2022 test indicates a multi-year gap where the vehicle was either stored off the road or driven without valid testing up to the current date in 2026. Vehicles that undergo extended stationary periods frequently suffer from accelerated component degradation, including sticking brake calipers, corroded brake friction surfaces, perished rubber suspension bushes, and exhaust corrosion caused by trapped condensation. On a physical inspection and test drive, rigorous attention must be paid to the front suspension and steering assembly given the historical defect log. Prospective buyers should listen for loud metallic knocking, grinding, or groaning noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which indicates binding or failing strut top bearings. Feel for steering play, vagueness, or wander through the wheel to assess the condition of the inner steering rack joints previously flagged for play. Furthermore, because the last recorded test cited fluctuating front service brakes and a distorted nearside rear wheel, check for brake pedal judder under light application and monitor for body vibration or uneven tyre wear. The exhaust system requires a thorough underbody check, as major leaks of exhaust gases were recorded across multiple test years; listen for raspy blowing sounds under acceleration and inspect all joints, silencers, and flexible sections for unaddressed blowouts or temporary patches. The rear lamp clusters and electrical earth connections also warrant careful checking, as repeated failures for cracked lenses, missing reflectors, and cross-earth faults where operating one light affects another point to water ingress and corroded bulb holders. Finally, verify the underside structural condition, paying particular attention to subframes, floor pans, and bumper mountings for advanced corrosion or impact damage.