2017 Fiat Benimar 2.3L Diesel · PN67 NTL

The 2017 Fiat 500 Abarth has passed its most recent MOT test on 2025-12-04 with no recorded defects, marking a return to a clean status following a series of advisories and major failures in 2023 and 2024. While the vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of persistent suspension and brake-related advisories—particularly around worn suspension arm bushes and brake disc wear—these issues have not escalated to the point of failure in the last two years, suggesting either effective corrective action or a stabilisation of the underlying wear. However, the recurring nature of these advisories, especially the front and rear suspension arm bushes and brake discs, indicates that the vehicle has not been fully addressed in previous MOTs, which may reflect either incomplete servicing or deferred maintenance. The absence of further failures in the last 12 months is encouraging, but the buyer should remain vigilant, as these conditions could worsen with continued use, particularly if the vehicle is driven under heavy loads or subjected to rough road conditions. The recorded mileage of 18,284 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 2,032 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged standing, particularly if the vehicle was used in a climate with cold winters or stored indoors, where components like seals, gaskets, and fluids can degrade more rapidly. However, the absence of significant mileage accumulation over the past few years could also suggest that the vehicle was driven sparingly or kept in a well-maintained condition. For a suspension system and braking components that have shown wear, this low usage might have slowed the progression of deterioration, but it also means that any existing wear has not been mitigated by dynamic loading. The buyer should consider whether the vehicle’s low mileage is sustainable or if it reflects underlying issues like poor maintenance or operational inefficiency, which could lead to accelerated wear if conditions change. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and the recurring advisories from previous MOTs, the buyer should conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection to address both the immediate concerns and the long-term maintenance requirements. Focus first on the suspension system, as the advisories regarding worn suspension arm bushes—particularly the rear bushes that were noted as split—indicate potential instability or excessive movement. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front and rear suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at speed. Check for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for signs of hydroplaning or excessive tread depth, as the front brake discs being significantly worn may require renewed attention. Additionally, examine the brake system for any signs of binding calipers, corrosion on brake discs, or fluid leaks from the master cylinder or brake lines, as these could lead to reduced braking performance or failure. For the brake system, the advisories and major failures from previous MOTs highlight that the front and rear discs are already at a critical stage of wear, with the discs on the near and offside fronts and both rear positions showing significant pitting, scoring, or thinning. The buyer should expect to replace these discs soon, ideally within the next 12 to 24 months, as further wear could compromise braking efficiency and safety. Inspect the brake pads for thickness and condition, and check for any signs of glazing or overheating, which could indicate thermal damage. The suspension advisories suggest that the front and rear suspension arms may require replacement of the bushes or pins, which are critical for maintaining alignment and reducing road noise. A professional inspection should also verify the alignment of the steering system, as misalignment can exacerbate tyre wear and suspension stress. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for fluid servicing—such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—which should be replaced at specified intervals, even if the vehicle has not been driven extensively. Given the vehicle’s age, check the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur from prolonged storage or exposure to UV light, and test the 12-volt battery for charge retention and overall health, as standing vehicles can suffer from battery degradation or corrosion in the terminals. Finally, the buyer should consider the cost of potential repairs in relation to the vehicle’s value and intended use, as the suspension and brake system issues may require significant investment to restore the vehicle to a safe and reliable condition.