2012 Fiat 500C 0.9L Petrol · SD12 DPO

Corrosion on the rear axle and recurring issues with the front braking system and drive shaft components define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT test on 25 September 2026. While the car passed its latest inspection, the record shows a pattern of structural and mechanical advisories, including a split offside front outer drive shaft CV boot that caused a failure in both 2024 and 2026. The presence of ongoing advisories for rear axle corrosion and pitted front brake discs, alongside a binding offside front service brake, suggests a trend of wear in the chassis and braking subsystems that requires close monitoring. The vehicle has covered 58,230 miles over approximately 14 years, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 4,159 miles. This is a low rate of mileage for a vehicle of this age, which can sometimes result in components such as brake discs and calipers experiencing more surface oxidation or binding due to infrequent use. Mechanically, this low-mileage profile means that while the drivetrain may have less cumulative wear, other elements like rubber suspension bushes and seals may be more susceptible to age-related degradation rather than wear from high-frequency road use. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the braking and suspension components flagged in the recent history. The advisory for a binding offside front service brake and worn, pitted front brake discs warrants a test drive to check for any pulling to one side during braking or a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal. Furthermore, the recorded history of worn suspension arm bushes and a failed nearside rear shock absorber bush indicates that the suspension geometry and damping may be compromised. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate further deterioration of the suspension linkages or bushes. The recorded oil leak from 2025 and the advisory for rear axle corrosion necessitate a physical inspection of the underside of the vehicle. The corrosion should be assessed to determine if it is merely surface-level or if it threatens the structural integrity of the axle. Additionally, the driver should check for any visible signs of fluid weeping around the engine or gearbox to ensure the previously noted oil leak has not worsened. Given the history of a split CV boot, a visual inspection of the drive shaft boots for any signs of splitting or grease leakage is also essential to prevent further mechanical failure.