2013 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · ST63 DXD

The most recent MOT on 3 August 2026 was passed, with advisories noting off‑side front disc wear and a minor front‑driving‑related issue. Over the last six years the car has consistently passed its MOT but has accumulated a growing list of advisories – recurring play in the steering rack inner joints, progressive corrosion of all coil springs, repeated tyre perishing, brake‑disc wear on both fronts and a persistent minor exhaust leak. The pattern suggests a maintenance regime that keeps the vehicle road‑legal but does not appear to be addressing the underlying wear, so the overall trend is stable in terms of passing but deteriorating in the depth of recurring defects. At 78 822 mi the car averages just over 6 000 mi per year, which is typical for a small city car of its age. The mileage does not indicate any periods of high‑speed or heavy‑load use, but the relatively low annual distance also implies the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary. Prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion of suspension components, promote tyre sidewall perishing, and lead to battery sulphation, all of which are reflected in the MOT advisories. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the steering and braking systems. On a visual inspection check the steering rack inner joints for any looseness or oil leakage and feel for play by rocking the wheel at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions; excessive movement will manifest as a clunk or vague steering feel during low‑speed manoeuvres. Inspect both front brake discs for remaining thickness and surface scoring – the repeated “worn, pitted or scored” advisories mean the discs may be approaching the end of their service life and could soon require replacement, while the off‑side front brake pipe should be examined for corrosion or fluid seepage. The minor exhaust leak should be probed for audible ticking or a faint sulphur smell, especially when the engine is warm, as a deteriorating pipe can affect emissions and increase noise. All four tyres need close scrutiny for sidewall cracks, dry rot or uneven wear that may have been accelerated by the vehicle’s standing periods; measuring tread depth and checking for any bulges or foreign objects is essential. Finally, examine the coil springs for surface corrosion that could compromise ride height and handling, and look over the suspension bushings for any cracking or excessive play. During a test drive listen for any knocking or clunking when turning the wheel, feel for any looseness in the steering column, and note whether the steering returns promptly to centre. Apply the brakes firmly to detect any pulsation, shudder or a spongy pedal that would indicate disc or caliper issues, and watch for any pull to one side that could point to tyre or suspension problems. Verify that all lights, indicators and the 12 V battery operate correctly, and consider having a qualified mechanic perform a full brake‑system service, steering‑rack refurbishment, tyre replacement and corrosion treatment on the springs and chassis. Checking the service book for timing‑belt or chain intervals – typically around 60 000 mi for this model – and confirming recent oil, coolant and transmission‑fluid changes will also give a clearer picture of the car’s long‑term reliability.