2016 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · SL16 AAY

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows signs of a worsening maintenance trend, evidenced by the most recent test on 31 March 2026 at 57,286 miles. While the car passed this inspection, the tester flagged several significant issues including a snapped nearside handbrake cable bracket, an oil leak from the sump, and multiple tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing. The failure immediately preceding this pass revealed a more serious set of defects, including an inoperative engine malfunction indicator lamp and an excessively worn nearside rear shock absorber bush. This pattern suggests that while repairs are being made to secure a pass, the vehicle is increasingly prone to multiple simultaneous mechanical and consumable failures. The mileage profile indicates low annual usage, averaging approximately 5,700 miles per year over its ten-year lifespan. The data shows a consistent, albeit slow, accumulation of distance, moving from 21,333 miles in March 2020 to 57,286 miles in March 2026. This low mileage often correlates with the tyre degradation noted in the 2026 record, where cracking and perishing suggest the rubber is aging due to time rather than heavy tread wear. The lack of significant mileage gaps indicates the vehicle has been used regularly, though the recurring nature of the defects suggests that preventative maintenance has been neglected in favour of reactive repairs. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the suspension and braking systems during a physical inspection. The MOT history shows a persistent issue with shock absorber bushes and fluid leaks, with faults appearing in March 2022, March 2024, and March 2026. The recent handbrake cable failure and previous reports of thin brake pads necessitate a thorough check of the entire braking circuit and cable tension. Additionally, the recurring reports of oil leaks from the sump and the recent failure involving the engine malfunction indicator lamp mean the engine bay and electronic diagnostic systems require close scrutiny to ensure no deeper mechanical or sensor-related issues remain unresolved.