2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · RF09 FBO

The most recent MOT recorded on 11 December 2025 was a pass, the only non‑passable item being a rear registration‑plate lamp that was inoperative; this is a straightforward electrical fault that can be remedied with a new bulb or wiring repair. An advisory was also noted for a near‑side oil leak from the driveshaft seal, which did not exceed the permissible limit at the time of test. Compared with the preceding years, the trend is moving from a series of major failures in 2023‑2024 (rear brake cylinder leak, brake imbalance, severely worn suspension arm bushes and deteriorating exhaust) to a largely compliant status, indicating that the most serious defects have either been rectified or are now within acceptable limits. At 124,946 mi the car averages roughly 7,300 mi per annum over its 17‑year life, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a small city car. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme high‑speed running, but it also indicates that the vehicle has been driven enough for normal wear of consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension components. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would point to a short‑term high‑stress episode, so the wear observed in the MOT history is more likely to be age‑related rather than the result of excessive mileage accumulation. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the front and rear suspension bushes and arm pins that have been flagged repeatedly as excessively worn. Feel for clunking or looseness when applying steering inputs and when pushing the car over bumps; any play may indicate that the bushes are close to failure and will need replacement. The rear shock absorber on the off‑side was noted with oil misting and negligible damping, so check for excessive bounce, uneven tyre wear or a squatting rear end under acceleration – symptoms that would confirm the shock is no longer providing adequate control. The rear hydraulic brake cylinder leak and the imbalance across the rear axle recorded in 2024 should be verified by inspecting the rear brake discs for uneven wear, checking for fluid stains around the calipers, and testing the parking brake for proper hold; a soft or spongy pedal, pulling to one side, or a noticeable brake shudder are warning signs that the brake system may still be compromised. Beyond the specific defects, a thorough age‑related check is advisable. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or cupping, especially on the near‑side front tyre that was previously close to the legal limit. Verify that the exhaust system, which has been reported as deteriorated and with a defective mounting pipe, is free of rust holes, excessive corrosion or loud rattles that could indicate a leak. Inspect the under‑body for any fresh oil seepage from the near‑side driveshaft seal and confirm that the oil level and condition are normal. Finally, test the 12 V battery voltage, check the coolant and brake fluid levels, and ensure the service history shows regular oil changes and timing‑belt (or chain) maintenance appropriate for a 2009 model. Addressing these points will give you a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance budget.