2005 Fiat Panda 1.2L Petrol · RA55 AFU

The Fiat Panda’s most recent MOT test on 2025-06-20 passed with no defects recorded, but the immediate preceding test on 2025-06-20 also failed—despite minimal mileage change (just two miles)—indicating a procedural anomaly rather than a mechanical issue. This pattern of back-to-back tests suggests either a rushed or administrative oversight rather than a worsening mechanical trend. The previous two tests in 2024—one passed on 2024-07-11 and one failed on 2024-07-05—also show no substantive defects, reinforcing that the vehicle has not experienced recurring faults requiring repair. However, the lack of advisories or defect notes across all tests means no prior issues were documented, leaving the true condition of high-wear components unrecorded. The recorded mileage of 80,673 miles over 21 years equates to approximately 3,842 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 11-month span between 2024 and 2025—suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate degradation of suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components due to static load. The absence of mileage jumps also raises questions about whether the vehicle was stored rather than driven, potentially masking underlying issues like corrosion or fluid leaks. Without a more detailed service history, it remains unclear whether critical maintenance—such as brake fluid changes or suspension servicing—was performed at all. Given the sparse MOT record, an in-person inspection should prioritise the suspension system, particularly the condition of rear coil springs and bushes, which are prone to dry rot and cracking over 21 years. The brakes, though not flagged, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Structural integrity should be checked for corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as rust can compromise the chassis without leaving visible MOT defects. Finally, verify the integrity of the exhaust system and catalytic converter, as these are common failure points in older vehicles and often go unnoticed until they fail an emission test.