2017 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · RO63 BOS

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2017 Fiat 500, conducted on 2026-05-15, resulted in a passing grade, though it included several advisories that warrant careful consideration. While this latest test shows no major failures, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the suspension, brakes, and tyres, which suggests that maintenance has not been entirely consistent. The failure in 2024-05-30—where a major defect was recorded for the registration plate lamp and repeated advisories on tyre condition—indicates that some areas have been neglected over time, though the 2025 and 2026 tests have mitigated these concerns. The presence of multiple advisories on suspension components, such as worn strut pins and misted shock absorbers, also points to potential long-term wear that could escalate if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,620 miles at the time of this assessment reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,736 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old car with a relatively low-to-moderate workload. This figure does not suggest excessive wear from heavy daily use, but it also does not indicate minimal exposure, as some components—particularly those subject to dynamic loading like suspension and brakes—may have accumulated more stress than a lower-mileage vehicle. The absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation over the past few years supports the idea that the car has been maintained with some regularity, though the MOT history indicates that certain systems have been overlooked. For instance, the repeated advisories on tyre wear and structural suspension components suggest that the vehicle may have been driven in conditions that have accelerated wear, such as rough roads or uneven terrain. Given the MOT advisories and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to confirm the condition of the identified defects and plan preventative maintenance. The nearside front brake pads being worn thin and the offside rear tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing are critical areas to address immediately. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal response or a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or binding calipers. Inspect the suspension for excessive clunking or bouncing, particularly when driving over bumps, as this may signal worn strut mounts or split bushings. The light misting of oil in the offside front shock absorbers is a warning sign that these components may require servicing or replacement soon, as misted shocks can lead to reduced damping efficiency and increased road noise. Additionally, the buyer should verify the structural integrity of the suspension arms, focusing on the lower arm bushings, which were noted as split in the 2024 failure. Visually inspect these components for any signs of cracking or excessive play when the vehicle is lifted slightly off the ground. The registration plate lamp failure in previous tests is a minor but important issue to resolve, as it affects legal compliance and visibility. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age, check the condition of the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, ensuring they are free of contaminants and at appropriate levels. The 12V battery should also be tested for voltage and capacity, as standing for prolonged periods can lead to corrosion or reduced performance. Lastly, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity, especially if the vehicle has been stored without regular use. If the tyre history shows minimal wear and age-related damage is not severe, consider a full tyre rotation and alignment to ensure even tread wear.