2017 Abarth 695 1.4L Petrol · SS55 CHR

The most recent DVSA examination on 26 November 2025 resulted in a Pass, with two advisories recorded against the rear inner brake discs for wear, though not considered excessive at that time. Looking back across the documented test history, the overall trend is one of broadly stable maintenance, with a single Major failure in November 2021 for an imbalanced front braking system across the axle, a defect of meaningful mechanical significance as imbalance in this region typically points to uneven pad wear, a binding caliper, or a stuck slider mechanism that prevents equal hydraulic force from being applied. Aside from that isolated event, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual roadworthiness checks, and the advisory count in 2025 is modest, suggesting the car is being maintained in a generally serviceable condition rather than displaying a progressively worsening defect pattern. The recorded mileage of 34,354 miles over an approximate nine-year lifespan equates to around 3,800 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and likely a reflection of either limited recreational or commuting use, seasonal storage, or extended periods of standing. The MOT records support this profile, showing roughly three to four thousand miles accumulated between tests rather than the higher figures typical of daily-driven cars. While low annual mileage is generally kinder to engine and drivetrain wear, it does introduce a separate set of age-related concerns, particularly around components that degrade with time rather than use, such as brake disc surface corrosion from standing, brake caliper slider seizure from infrequent operation, perishing of rubber and polymer components, and degradation of fluids including brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories around inner tyre edge wear on the 2021 and 2024 tests warrant particular attention. This pattern on a front axle typically indicates a tracking or geometry issue, possibly worn suspension bushes, top mounts, or a slightly bent component given the Abarth 695's sporting suspension geometry. A test drive should be conducted over uneven surfaces and broken tarmac to listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension, and any uneven or feathered wear pattern across the front tyres should be examined closely, as a four-wheel alignment check would be advisable. The 2021 wheel distortion advisory on the nearside front inner wheel, repeated in 2020, also suggests possible kerbing damage; the rim should be inspected for cracks, buckling, or air loss, and balancing weights checked for adhesion. The 2025 rear brake disc advisories indicate the discs are approaching a service threshold, and on a road test the buyer should listen for any grinding or scraping from the rear under light braking, feel for any vibration through the brake pedal, and verify that the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on an incline, as sticking rear caliper mechanisms are common on low-mileage cars that have stood for long periods. Given the low annual mileage, the brake fluid should be replaced regardless of its current age, as it is hygroscopic and degrades on a time basis, and the 12V battery should be load tested, as batteries seldom last beyond five to six years even with light use. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected for cracking or perishing from age, the exhaust system checked for corrosion at the mounting brackets and joint seals, and the underside examined for any standing-related surface corrosion. Service history should be verified to confirm time-based maintenance items such as cambelt replacement intervals, coolant renewal, and plug changes have been carried out at calendar-appropriate intervals rather than purely mileage-driven schedules.