2018 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WD18 FHC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 August 2026, was passed but returned three advisories: a deteriorating rear registration plate, a minor rear‑section exhaust leak and a near‑side rear service‑brake that is binding, though not excessively. The previous day’s test had failed on safety grounds – front tyre tread below the legal minimum, front brake pads at the wear indicator and an excessively worn off‑side front suspension arm ball joint – indicating that remedial work was undertaken between the two examinations. Overall the maintenance record shows a mixed picture: occasional serious defects have been addressed promptly, yet a pattern of recurring wear‑related advisories (brake pads, brake discs, suspension bushings and minor leaks) suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where component life‑spans are being reached and proactive upkeep will become increasingly important. With 38 158 miles recorded on an eight‑year‑old Fiat 500 the average annual mileage is roughly 4 800 mi, well below the typical UK usage of around 10‑12 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation can be a positive sign of reduced mechanical wear, but it also raises the likelihood of age‑related deterioration in parts that degrade with time rather than distance. Prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to tyre sidewall perishing, brake disc surface rust, fuel‑system varnish, and battery sulphation. If the mileage log shows any long gaps between services, those intervals should be scrutinised for signs of fluid breakdown or corrosion. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front tyre set, confirming that the tread depth now exceeds the 1.6 mm legal minimum and that the DOT code indicates the tyres are less than six years old. Look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking or bulging, which would point to mis‑alignment or suspension issues. On a test drive listen for any clunk or squeak when steering over bumps, which could indicate residual wear in the off‑side front ball joint or worn suspension bushes. Inspect the front brake discs for scoring, pitting or excessive rust, and verify that the pads have been replaced since the 2024 advisory; the rear service brake should move freely without noticeable drag, as binding can cause premature wear and reduced braking efficiency. The rear‑section exhaust leak should be examined for cracks or loose connections, as even a minor leak can raise emissions and produce a noticeable exhaust note. Finally, the rear registration plate should be replaced if the lettering is fading or the plate is warped, to avoid future compliance issues. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is advisable. Check the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance, as standing for long periods often leads to sulphated cells; a load test or replacement may be prudent. Verify that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the manufacturer’s time‑based intervals – oil can become thin and lose its protective qualities even with few miles on the clock. Examine the chassis and under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and confirm that any oil leak noted in 2024 has been rectified at the source rather than merely patched. A complete service history, with stamps for timing‑belt or chain changes (if applicable) and any suspension component replacements, will give the buyer confidence that the car’s wear items are being managed before they become safety‑critical.