2012 Abarth 500 1.4L Petrol · RO62 HWR

The 2012 Abarth 500 presents a stable and currently sound roadworthiness profile, with its most recent MOT on 18 November 2025 recording a clean pass at 51,190 miles and zero defects. The maintenance trend over the past three years shows a clear improvement. Advisories that were present in the August 2024 test, specifically split bottom arm bushes and corrosion at the rear spring mounting, appear to have been addressed, as no related defects were flagged in the subsequent test. This suggests the previous owner invested in remedial work between late 2024 and late 2025. The vehicle's mileage pattern is notably low for a 14-year-old car. The record shows just 3,656 miles per year on average. The most recent test on 18 November 2025 recorded 51,190 miles, while the test just three months earlier on 20 August 2025 showed 50,835 miles, indicating a modest accumulation of 355 miles in that short window. This confirms the car is being used regularly now, but the overall low mileage implies long periods of light use or standing, which can cause its own issues such as perished rubber components and surface corrosion from lack of use. Despite the clean recent result, the history reveals a pattern of suspension and structural corrosion issues that a buyer must inspect carefully. The rear suspension spring mounting area was flagged for corrosion in both the August 2024 and August 2025 tests. Although it was not deemed excessive on either occasion, corrosion in this prescribed area is a structural concern that can worsen rapidly and requires close physical inspection for any deep pitting or thinning. The front lower arm bushes were also flagged as split in August 2024, and while the 2025 test was clean, worn or deteriorated suspension bushes are common on these vehicles and can cause vague steering and uneven tyre wear. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough underside inspection, focusing on the rear axle area for any progression of corrosion beyond the 2025 advisory. The rear shock absorber bushes and rear wheel bearings have also drawn advisories in previous years, so these components should be checked for play and deterioration. Low-mileage cars like this can suffer from brake calipers binding or discs corroding from infrequent use, so a test drive should assess braking feel and any pulling. Overall, the record indicates a well-maintained car with recent repairs, but the recurring suspension and corrosion advisories demand a careful physical examination to confirm the integrity of critical structural and suspension components.