2017 Fiat Panda 0.9L Petrol · V28 MAK

With a 2017 Fiat Panda that has covered 157,825 miles across nine years, the most notable aspect of this vehicle's MOT record is its absence of recorded advisories or defects across every test, including the most recent pass on 23 June 2025. Two of the four documented tests at the 2024 and 2023 windows were initial failures followed immediately by re-tests that passed cleanly with no defects recorded, suggesting minor rectification work was carried out between appointments rather than systemic mechanical deterioration. The overall trajectory is one of stable roadworthiness, with the car meeting standards consistently at every annual assessment, although the lack of any advisories is itself unusual for a vehicle of this age and mileage, which can occasionally point to advisories being addressed prior to test rather than ignored. An annual mileage of approximately 17,500 miles places this Panda firmly in high-use territory for a small city car of its vintage, meaning the engine, clutch, brakes, and suspension components have all been worked considerably harder than average. There are no significant gaps in the testing history to suggest extended periods off the road, which is positive for avoiding issues such as seized calipers, dried rubber seals, or moisture ingress in the braking system. Conversely, consistent high-mileage running typically accelerates wear on clutch components, dual-mass flywheel integrity, front suspension bushes, and anti-roll bar linkages, all of which are known wear items on the Panda platform. The drivetrain will have absorbed far more thermal and mechanical cycling than a typical low-mileage example, so internal engine condition and transmission syncros deserve particular scrutiny. From a buyer inspection standpoint, the clean advisory record means there are no specific flagged components to target, but the high mileage profile should prompt a focused appraisal of the areas most likely to have absorbed wear over 17,500 annual miles. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as the Panda's front anti-roll bar bushes and lower wishbone bushes are prone to deterioration and can generate distinctive rattling noises when worn. Feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which would suggest warped front discs, and check for a soft or spongy brake pedal that could indicate perished rear brake drums or hydraulic issues given the high annual mileage. With high miles on the clock, the clutch should be tested on a steep hill to confirm it does not slip under load, and the gearbox should be checked for reluctant engagement into first or reverse when cold. Given that every MOT entry records no advisories whatsoever, any developing issues will not yet be flagged in the official history, making a pre-purchase inspection all the more important. A thorough check underneath the car for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox seals is advisable, as high-mileage Pandas commonly show signs of minor seepage from the cam cover gasket and rear main seal. Examine the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, as the high annual mileage accelerates exhaust degradation through repeated thermal cycling. Finally, verify the service history stamps for evidence of regular cambelt and auxiliary belt replacement at manufacturer-specified intervals, as this single maintenance item is critical to the longevity of the 1.2-litre engine and represents the highest-value preventative service for any prospective Panda buyer at this mileage level.