2020 Fiat 500 Star 1.2L Petrol · PL69 LLJ

The latest MOT test on 2026-02-24 resulted in a passing grade, though it included several recurring advisories that suggest a pattern of wear-related issues rather than outright failure. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a mix of passed and minor failures, with the most recent test highlighting oil leaks and worn suspension components—specifically, near and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes exhibiting moderate wear but not yet severe enough to cause excessive movement. These advisories are consistent with the previous MOT records from 2023 and 2024, where similar suspension-related issues were noted, indicating a gradual progression of wear rather than sudden deterioration. While the windscreen wiper failure from 2024 was a major defect, it has since been rectified, and no other critical failures have been recorded since then, suggesting that the vehicle’s core roadworthiness is stable but requires ongoing attention to the suspension and fluid systems. The recorded mileage of 29,834 miles for a 2020 Fiat 500 Star—approximately 4,972 miles per year—is notably low for its age, which may imply limited operational use or extended periods of inactivity. Lower mileage can sometimes mask underlying issues, such as standing corrosion in brake systems, fluid degradation from stagnation, or wear from infrequent movement of suspension components. However, the consistent advisories on suspension and tyre wear suggest that the vehicle has been subjected to moderate usage, potentially leading to cumulative stress on components like the front suspension arms, ball joints, and brake discs. This could result in increased vibration, clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, or uneven tyre wear patterns if the suspension alignment remains misaligned. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front suspension components, as the advisories indicate wear in the lower suspension arms and ball joints. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension during cornering or when driving over uneven surfaces, which could indicate loose or worn suspension bushes or ball joints. Check for uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges of the front tyres, which aligns with the previous MOT advisory, and verify that the tyres have sufficient tread depth—ideally, no less than 3mm—though the legal limit is 1.6mm. Inspect the front brake discs for pitting, scoring, or excessive thickness loss, as the 2023 MOT noted wear that may require attention if it progresses further. Additionally, examine the oil level and condition, as the oil leak advisory suggests potential seepage from the sump or other internal components, which could indicate wear in seals or gaskets. A thorough visual inspection of the suspension for corrosion or excessive play in the joints is also essential, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, it is prudent to prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the suspension and braking systems before purchase. If the suspension components are confirmed to be worn but not yet failing, consider budgeting for potential future replacements, particularly the suspension arms and ball joints, which are critical for handling and safety. The tyre advisories from 2024 and 2023 highlight the need for attention to tyre condition, and while the vehicle may not have accumulated high mileage, tyres can still degrade from age, especially if they have been stored in poor conditions. Check the tyre sidewall for signs of cracking or perishing, which can indicate long-term exposure to UV light or temperature fluctuations. Finally, since the vehicle has been used sparingly, verify the condition of the 12V battery and the age of the fluids, such as the brake fluid and coolant, as these can degrade over time even with low usage. A service history check, if available, would provide further insight into the vehicle’s maintenance schedule and any planned or completed work.