2016 Abarth 595 1.4L Petrol · RO16 WHG

The most recent MOT test for this 2016 Abarth 595 was conducted on 2025-09-29 and resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s most recent inspection without any recorded defects. Despite the prior failure in 2024-10-08 related solely to headlamp alignment issues, which were rectified, the overall maintenance trend over the past five years appears stable and consistent. The absence of repeated failures beyond the headlight adjustments suggests that the vehicle has maintained a generally reliable condition, though the persistent advisory regarding the offside rear shock absorbers—indicating light oil misting—demands closer attention to prevent further degradation. This advisory, appearing in two consecutive years, may signal early wear or potential fluid leakage, warranting a proactive inspection of the suspension components to avoid suspension failure or reduced handling performance. The recorded mileage of 26,062 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years is unusually low, translating to roughly 2,606 miles per year. Such a low annual mileage is atypical for a performance-oriented vehicle of this era, particularly one with a high-performance drivetrain and suspension designed for aggressive use. This discrepancy could imply either prolonged periods of inactivity, infrequent driving, or potentially excessive standing time, which can accelerate wear in components like brakes, seals, and suspension bushes due to corrosion and fluid degradation. The low mileage may also mask underlying issues, such as brake disc corrosion from prolonged idling or caliper binding, which are more common in vehicles that do not see regular use. Conversely, if the mileage is accurate and the vehicle has been driven sparingly, the wear on consumables like tyres, fluids, and internal components may be less severe, but the suspension advisories suggest that the offside rear shock absorbers require immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. For the prospective buyer, the most critical inspection should focus on the offside rear shock absorbers, as the light oil misting advisories indicate potential fluid leakage or internal damage. On a test drive, listen for a noticeable clunk or harshness in the offside rear suspension when cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest suspension misalignment. Inspect the shock absorbers visually for any signs of oil leakage around the mounting points, and verify that the vehicle settles smoothly when braking or accelerating. If the suspension components appear compromised, consider replacing the offside rear shock absorbers promptly to prevent suspension failure, which could lead to reduced handling stability and increased risk of accidents. Additionally, ensure the headlamps are properly aligned and functioning, as the prior failure highlights the importance of this safety-related item. Beyond the suspension, given the vehicle’s age and the low mileage, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal use over time. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as this can lead to reduced braking efficiency. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged inactivity can cause it to lose charge or develop internal corrosion, which may require replacement if the battery struggles to hold a charge or shows signs of swelling. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage, especially in a vehicle that has not been driven regularly. Ensure the service book is up to date, or request a full fluid flush and component replacement if the last service was more than two years ago, to maintain the vehicle’s roadworthiness and performance.