2010 Fiat Bravo 1.4L Petrol · SC10 TLU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 December 2024, resulted in a failure because both front position lamps and the front headlamps on dipped beam were inoperative, with the same lighting faults recorded as pass‑re‑test (PRS) failures. Apart from the lighting defects, the test only produced the usual advisories – a minor exhaust leak, slight wear on the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, and the continuation of earlier suspension and brake disc advisories. Over the preceding five years the vehicle consistently passed its MOT, albeit with a growing list of minor wear items, so the current failure marks a clear deterioration in the lighting system while the overall maintenance trend remains mixed, with most components still within acceptable limits but showing incremental wear. At 159,569 miles on a 2010 model the car averages just under 10 000 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest a short‑term abuse, nor are there large gaps that would indicate long periods of inactivity. The mileage level means that consumables such as tyres, brake pads, discs and suspension bushings are approaching the point where they normally require replacement, and the cumulative wear on the drivetrain and chassis components is consistent with moderate, steady use. A prospective buyer should give the lighting system immediate attention – verify that the front position lamps, headlamp bulbs and associated wiring harnesses are intact, that the relevant fuses are not blown, and that the headlamp adjustment is correct. During a test drive listen for any ticking or hissing from the exhaust, particularly around the manifold and pipe joints, as the advisory for a minor leak can develop into a louder leak or increased emissions. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes flagged as slightly worn can produce a distinct clunk when the vehicle is cornered or when the rear wheels are forced over bumps; check for any play by pushing the rear wheels laterally. The front anti‑roll bar ball joint and the front suspension arm ball joint, both noted for slight play, may manifest as a vague knocking sensation under steering inputs or when traversing uneven surfaces. Inspect the brake discs for scoring or uneven wear and confirm that the pads have sufficient thickness – a shallow pad combined with pitted discs can lead to brake shudder or reduced stopping performance. The near‑side rear tyre was recorded as close to the legal limit, so examine both tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and any signs of cupping or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Given the vehicle’s age, time‑related checks are equally important. Examine all tyres for age‑related perishing – sidewalls can become brittle after six years regardless of tread depth, especially if the car has spent periods standing. Test the 12 V battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, as batteries over ten years often fail suddenly. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended two‑year intervals; discoloured or oily fluids are a sign of neglect. Look for corrosion on the exhaust manifold joints, under‑body panels and wheel arches, which can accelerate rust on structural members. Finally, request the full service book to confirm that major services, timing belt or chain changes (if applicable), and any previous suspension or brake work have been recorded, and be prepared to budget for replacement of the front lamps, brake discs and pads, rear axle swivel bushes, and any exhausted‑leak repairs that may be required to bring the car back to a fully road‑worthy condition.