2016 Fiat Swift 2.3L Diesel · RX66 AEB

Significant tyre degradation and age-related perishing present the primary immediate concern for this vehicle, as evidenced by the advisory notes from the latest MOT pass on 20 April 2026. While the overall testing trend has been largely stable with no recorded defects throughout 2024 and 2025, the recent identification of cracking and perishing across all four tyres, alongside a specific cut to the nearside rear tyre, indicates that the rubber components are reaching the end of their serviceable life due to age rather than mileage. This follows a single major failure in February 2025 regarding the supplementary restraint system warning lamp, a fault that was subsequently rectified to allow for a clean pass. The vehicle exhibits an unusually low usage profile for a 2016 model, having covered only 20,980 miles over its ten-year lifespan. This averages to approximately 2,098 miles per year, which is significantly below the UK national average. Mechanically, such low annual accumulation suggests the car has spent considerable time stationary or has been used only for very short, infrequent journeys. While this typically results in less mechanical wear on the engine, drivetrain, and suspension linkages, it often leads to the exact type of rubber degradation seen in the current MOT record, as tyres and various seals can perish more quickly when not subjected to regular heat cycles and movement. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyre sidewalls and tread depth, as the advisory regarding perishing across all four tyres suggests a requirement for a full set of replacements to ensure safe handling and grip. During a test drive, pay close attention to any vibrations through the steering wheel or unusual road noise, which could indicate uneven wear or internal tyre structure issues resulting from the recorded damage. Given the low mileage and the potential for the vehicle to have sat idle, it is also prudent to check the condition of the braking system for any signs of binding or surface corrosion on the discs, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven frequently enough to clear debris and maintain heat. Beyond the tyres, the previous failure of the supplementary restraint system lamp warrants a verification that the airbag warning light operates correctly during the initial ignition sequence and does not reappear during transit. While the recent history shows no issues with the suspension, exhaust, or structural integrity, the combination of low mileage and age-related rubber degradation means that secondary components like drive belts and various rubber bushings should be visually inspected for signs of cracking. Listen for any rhythmic thumping or irregular handling that might suggest the tyres are not seating correctly or that the low usage has allowed other perishable components to harden.