2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · PK59 KXJ

The 2009 Fiat 500’s roadworthiness record shows a mixed but generally stable trend, with the most recent MOT in September 2025—just eight months ago—passing without defects. While this suggests the vehicle has been kept compliant since then, the history reveals persistent issues that indicate deferred maintenance rather than a sudden deterioration. The rear suspension, in particular, has been flagged repeatedly for corrosion and wear, most notably in the spring cups and mounts from 2023 onward, alongside recurring brake imbalances and a failed parking brake in 2022. The absence of major failures since then does not negate the need for scrutiny, as these recurring advisories imply a pattern of neglect rather than proactive upkeep. The recorded mileage of 86,517 miles over 17 years—roughly 5,089 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 MOTs (just 805 miles in a year) and the subsequent 2024 test (another 340 miles) hints at possible periods where the car was stationary, which could exacerbate corrosion and suspension deterioration. The lack of rapid mileage accumulation also means some components may have been underutilised, potentially masking deeper issues until forced into service. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear suspension, particularly the corroded spring cups and mounts, which have been flagged as non-excessive but still indicative of structural compromise. The rear brakes, which were imbalanced in 2023 and showed a worn front disc in 2022, warrant thorough checking for uneven wear or binding calipers. The parking brake’s past failures suggest the mechanism may require adjustment or replacement, while the slight corrosion on the rear brake hose ferrule could develop into a leak if ignored. Finally, the front Macpherson strut bush and anti-roll bar ball joint—both noted for wear in 2022—should be examined for excessive play or deterioration, as these components directly affect handling and safety.