2010 Fiat Grande Punto 1.4L Petrol · SC10 EXS

The most recent MOT for this 2010 Fiat Grande Punto was a pass on 13 October 2025, but the vehicle's maintenance history shows a concerning trend of significant mechanical failures and safety-critical defects. While the most recent result is a pass, the vehicle underwent a dangerous failure just one week prior, involving a complete loss of braking effort on the offside rear parking brake and a major exhaust leak. The history indicates a pattern of recurring issues, particularly regarding the braking system and structural integrity, suggesting that while the vehicle is being maintained enough to pass annual inspections, it is prone to sudden, serious component failures that require immediate attention. With 115,761 miles recorded over approximately 16 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,235 miles per year. This level of usage is considered typical for a small hatchback of this age and suggests a consistent, moderate driving profile rather than extreme motorway use or excessive short-trip urban driving. Mechanically, this mileage level means that many major wear-and-tear components are likely approaching the end of their service life. You should expect that suspension components, such as bushes and dampers, and various rubber seals throughout the engine bay may be showing signs of age-related degradation, even if the annual mileage remains relatively low. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the steering and suspension. The most recent advisory notes play in the offside front steering rack inner joint, which can manifest as a vague or disconnected feeling through the steering wheel or a knocking sound when driving over uneven surfaces or turning at low speeds. Furthermore, the advisory regarding the nearside front tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing is a significant concern; even if the tread depth appears sufficient, age-related sidewall degradation can lead to sudden structural failure. Inspect all tyres for similar perishing, especially if the vehicle has spent long periods stationary, and check the brake discs for excessive corrosion or uneven wear, given the previous history of binding calipers and parking brake failures. The historical records also highlight potential long-term issues with fluid management and structural health. Previous advisories regarding a corroded sump and oil leaks suggest that the engine's sealing integrity should be closely monitored for any active drips or heavy residue around the oil pan. Additionally, the 2024 failure involving seat belt anchorage strength being reduced due to sill corrosion is a major red flag regarding the vehicle's structural integrity. You must inspect the sills and floor pans thoroughly for advanced rust or previous welding repairs. If the corrosion is progressive, it could compromise the safety of the passenger cell, making this a critical area to verify before proceeding with a purchase.