2021 Fiat Talento 2.0L Diesel · SP71 GDA

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2021 Fiat Talento was conducted on 1 December 2025 and resulted in a PASS, albeit accompanied by two advisories relating to the front brake discs and a front inner tyre. Although the vehicle has passed its roadworthiness examination, the underlying history reveals a concerning pattern of brake-related issues that have progressively worsened. The earlier test on 6 December 2024 initially failed on significant defects, including an inoperative central stop lamp, a nearside rear brake disc that was significantly and obviously worn, and nearside rear brake pads that had worn down to their wear indicator. The vehicle was subsequently presented and passed on the same date following remedial work. Comparing the 2024 failure with the 2025 pass, the recorded trend suggests that while the rear brake components appear to have been addressed, the condition of the front braking system has continued to deteriorate, with pitting and scoring noted on both nearside and offside front discs across both tests and an additional advisory raised regarding the offside front inner tyre wearing close to the legal limit. This indicates that braking consumables are being consumed at a notable rate, which is consistent with the higher-than-average usage of the vehicle. With approximately 77,864 miles recorded over a five-year period, this Talento is accumulating roughly 15,500 miles annually, a figure that exceeds the typical average mileage for a vehicle of this age and suggests commercial, fleet, or heavy utility use. Such sustained high-mileage running places accelerated wear on the clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel (if applicable), suspension bushes and bearings, engine mounts, and timing chain components. The absence of any significant gaps in the MOT record also implies the vehicle has been in continuous service rather than standing for extended periods, which reduces the likelihood of standing-related corrosion and seized calipers but increases the probability of advanced wear on mechanically stressed components. For a prospective buyer, the recurring front brake disc advisories warrant close attention. Pitting and scoring of the brake disc friction surfaces reduces braking efficiency, particularly in wet conditions, and can lead to brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under heavy braking. It is advisable to inspect the front discs for lipping at the outer edge and to measure their remaining thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum wear specification. A test drive should focus on confirming that the brake pedal feels firm and progressive without excessive travel, that the vehicle pulls evenly to either side under braking, and that there are no grinding or scraping noises from the front wheels. Given that nearside rear brake pads previously wore down to the wear indicator, the rear discs and pads should also be physically inspected for remaining material, and the condition of the rear caliper slide pins and handbrake mechanism verified for full functionality. The advisory regarding the offside front inner tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge suggests a possible tracking, suspension, or camber issue, so a four-wheel alignment check and close inspection of the front suspension components, including wishbone bushes, drop links, and top mounts, would be prudent. Beyond the brake and tyre concerns, the high-mileage profile of this Talento necessitates a broader mechanical inspection. Given the diesel powertrain typical of this model, the timing belt or chain service interval, turbocharger actuator function, and EGR valve condition should be verified against the service history, along with confirmation that all scheduled manufacturer servicing has been carried out using quality fluids and filters. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be assessed for age-related degradation, as these are time-sensitive even where mileage is moderate. On the test drive, listen for any unusual whining from the transmission, clonks from the drivetrain on engagement, or excessive vibration from the engine, all of which could indicate worn dual-mass flywheel or engine mount issues consistent with the mileage. Finally, a diagnostic scan for stored fault codes, particularly relating to the DPF, AdBlue system, and emissions sensors, is strongly recommended, as these are common failure points on high-mileage commercial vehicles and can lead to expensive rectification if not addressed proactively.