2009 Fiat Scudo 2.0L Diesel · SL09 HHT

The most recent DVSA examination on 7 June 2023 resulted in a pass, but the test outcome is not without concern and must be read in conjunction with the failed attempt recorded just one day earlier on 6 June 2023. That earlier test identified two dangerous defects relating to both front brake discs being in such a condition that they were seriously weakened, alongside a major defect for an offside rear brake hose that was excessively stretched, which collectively represent a serious safety issue. After rectification, the vehicle passed with advisories on both rear brake discs showing wear, pitting and scoring, a minor for a deteriorated offside front driveshaft CV boot, and a further advisory concerning corrosion on the front sub-frame. The overall maintenance trend is deteriorating rather than stable. The 2023 test recorded significantly more concerning issues than the previous 2018 examination, and the 2014 and 2015 tests similarly flagged steering and suspension failures, indicating a recurring pattern of mechanical wear affecting the braking, steering and drivetrain sealing components. A prospective buyer should treat the recent pass as marginal and budget for immediate remedial work. With a recorded mileage of 232,443 miles on a 2009 Fiat Scudo, the vehicle has covered approximately 13,673 miles per year, which is substantially above average for its age and points to sustained heavy use. The MOT history shows tests in 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2023, with the gap between 2015 and 2018 reflecting either a change of testing cycle or a period without recorded tests, and the further gap from 2018 to 2023 likely indicates a vehicle that may have been off the road or tested infrequently during that interval. High annual mileage of this nature typically accelerates wear on all major mechanical assemblies including the clutch, turbocharger, timing belt, suspension bushes and dampers, and engine internal components. The combination of high mileage and the visible MOT record suggests that this vehicle has been worked hard throughout its life, and any prospective buyer should anticipate that significant mechanical intervention may be required in the near term. Given the recurring brake-related defects across multiple tests, particular attention must be paid to the braking system during a test drive. The 2023 advisories for both rear brake discs showing pitting and scoring, combined with the dangerous front brake disc defects recorded the day before the pass, mean that the discs and pads on all four corners should be physically inspected for wear, lipping, and any sign of binding calipers. During the test drive, listen for any scraping, grinding, or pulsation through the brake pedal, which would indicate warped or excessively worn discs, and check for any pulling to one side under braking that could indicate a seized caliper or stretched flexible hose as previously flagged. The offside front constant velocity boot deterioration noted in both 2018 and 2023 suggests the joint has been deteriorating over a prolonged period, so inspect the boot for splits or grease loss and listen for clicking or knocking on full lock which would indicate a failing CV joint requiring replacement. The advisory for sub-frame corrosion should also prompt a close underside examination for any structural deterioration that could affect long-term integrity. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and mileage profile of this 17-year-old commercial-derived vehicle demands attention to several time-based and usage-related items that may not appear on an MOT. Tyres should be inspected closely for perishing or cracking of the sidewalls caused by age rather than wear, particularly as standing periods accelerate rubber degradation, and the spare wheel or inflation kit should be verified as serviceable. The 12-volt battery is well beyond its typical service life and should be load tested, while brake fluid, coolant and power steering fluid should be assumed to require replacement on calendar age alone, particularly given the historic power steering leak noted in 2014. Suspension components including coil springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bar bushes should be checked for any knocking or excessive movement, which is common at this mileage. Finally, verify the service book history for timely replacement of the timing belt and water pump, which on this engine type is a critical service interval, and confirm that any evidence of welding or sub-frame repair has been carried out to a satisfactory standard given the corrosion advisory.