2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Diesel · OV09 EOZ

The most recent MOT on 19 May 2026 was passed, but it carried four advisories – a deteriorating front registration plate, slight play in the off‑side front anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint and minor headlamp lens defects – and no failures. Over the last three years the vehicle has moved from a pattern of repeated failures (including major faults such as an insecure exhaust, parking‑brake mis‑adjustment and a non‑functioning position lamp) to a clean pass, suggesting that the current owner has addressed the most serious safety items. Nevertheless the persistence of several recurring advisories – notably corrosion of the rear sub‑frame, worn suspension arm bushes and tyre wear approaching the legal limit – indicates that the underlying condition is still borderline and will require ongoing attention. At 101 826 mi the car averages just under 6 000 mi per year, well below the typical usage for a 2009 model. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can accelerate age‑related degradation such as rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of metal components, even though the wear on moving parts may be relatively mild. The mileage is not high enough to expect premature failure of major drivetrain items, but the combination of age and low utilisation means that many parts are likely to be at the end of their calendar life rather than their mileage life. A prospective buyer should give particular scrutiny to the rear registration plate – the record shows it repeatedly classified as “very poor” – and verify that a compliant plate is fitted and securely mounted, as an illegible plate can render the vehicle illegal on the road. The front anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint with slight play should be checked for clunking or looseness when cornering, and the off‑side front suspension arm pin or bush, which has been noted as worn, should be inspected for excessive movement or uneven tyre wear; any play may manifest as a shudder or a vague knocking sensation under braking or over bumps. The rear sub‑frame corrosion, although not yet deemed structurally critical, warrants a visual inspection for rust penetration, especially around mounting points, and a test‑drive should be used to feel for any flex or vibration that could indicate weakening. Tyres on both front corners were reported as close to the legal tread limit; the buyer must confirm that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm, that sidewalls are free from cracking or perishing, and that the tyre age (DOT code) is under six years, as older tyres can fail abruptly even with adequate tread. Beyond the specific items above, the car shows signs of age‑related wear that merit a comprehensive check: the front headlamp lenses are slightly defective and may need polishing or replacement to avoid reduced illumination; the exhaust system, previously flagged as insecure, should be examined for loose brackets, cracks or excessive corrosion that could cause rattles or increased emissions. The near‑side front oil leak advisory suggests a possible valve‑cover gasket or oil filter housing issue – a leak may be evident as oil spots under the engine bay or a faint oil smell when the engine is warm. Corroded rear coil springs and front MacPherson strut pins may lead to reduced ride quality and should be probed for signs of fatigue or cracking. Given the vehicle’s age, a 12 V battery test for cranking voltage and a check of all fluid levels – brake fluid (replace if over two years), coolant (look for rust or sludge) and gearbox oil (if serviceable) – are prudent. Finally, ensure the parking brake is correctly adjusted and does not exhibit excessive lever travel, as a mis‑adjusted brake can cause uneven rear‑wheel wear and reduced stopping performance. A thorough visual inspection combined with a cautious test‑drive will reveal whether the remaining advisory items are merely cosmetic or indicative of impending maintenance that should be factored into the purchase price.