2018 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · OV67 XRG

The most recent MOT test results for this 2018 Fiat 500 reflect a pattern of persistent but manageable advisories and one critical failure. The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 2025-09-16 with several recurring warnings—front brake discs showing slight corrosion and wear on inner surfaces, front lower suspension arm bushes exhibiting wear but not excessive movement, and rear coil springs displaying base-level corrosion. However, the vehicle failed on the same date with a dangerous tyre defect (bulge on the near-side front tyre), which indicates either a previous, undetected issue or a sudden structural compromise in the tyre’s sidewall. The earlier failures in 2024 and 2023 also highlight recurring problems with rear tyre deterioration, exhaust clamp corrosion, and front suspension bush wear, suggesting a maintenance trend that has not improved but has not spiralled into severe failure either. The fact that the vehicle passed in 2021 with no defects and then accumulated multiple advisories and one failure within the next four years points to either inconsistent servicing or inherent wear patterns that require vigilant monitoring. The recorded mileage of 45,963 miles for a vehicle aged eight years is unusually low, averaging just 5,745 miles annually—a rate far below the typical 10,000–15,000 miles per year for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of stationary use, which can accelerate corrosion in suspension components, brake systems, and exhaust parts due to oxidation and standing fluid degradation. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests the vehicle may have been used sparingly, but this also raises concerns about potential neglect in fluid servicing, such as brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid, which degrade over time even when not in use. Additionally, the low mileage could mask wear that would otherwise be more apparent under higher usage, meaning the vehicle’s true condition may be more severe than the MOT records suggest. Given the recurring advisories and critical tyre failure history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles from the suspension, particularly around the front lower arms, which may indicate worn bushes or loose components. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns or excessive vibration at high speeds, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues. Inspect the front brake discs for uneven wear, binding, or excessive heat discolouration, and test brake pedal travel—if it feels spongy or pulls to one side, this may indicate fluid contamination or a failing master cylinder. The tyre defects noted in previous MOTs warrant immediate attention; visually inspect the sidewall for cracks or bulges, and ensure the tread depth is legal and consistent. For the exhaust system, check for leaks or unusual noises, and verify that the clamps are securely fastened to prevent future corrosion-related failures. In addition to the mechanical checks above, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s age-appropriate wear and potential standing-related issues. Given the low mileage, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal use over time. Inspect the battery terminals and cables for corrosion or loose connections, and test the 12V output to ensure it holds charge without excessive resistance. Check the brake discs for corrosion or binding, particularly on the inner surfaces where the advisories were noted, and verify that the calipers are not seized or binding. Fluid levels should be checked—brake fluid should be replaced every two years due to moisture absorption, and coolant should be flushed and renewed annually to prevent corrosion and thermal breakdown. Finally, review the service history to confirm that the vehicle has received timely oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other essential maintenance, as low-mileage vehicles can still suffer from calendar-based wear if not properly serviced.