2013 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WM13 YPD

The vehicle passed its most recent DVSA MOT test on 9 September 2025, though three advisories were recorded. Two relate to the nearside and offside front inner tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, while the third notes an oil leak that, while not considered excessive at the time of test, has now been flagged two years in a row when considered alongside the 2023 advisory of light oil misting from the offside front shock absorber. Looking at the broader trajectory, the maintenance pattern is mixed but not alarming. Earlier tests in 2022 and 2024 were entirely clean, suggesting the car has generally been kept in a roadworthy state, but the 2021 test required replacement of both front lower suspension arm pins or bushes, and the rear coil springs were noted as corroded at the same point. The combination of suspension component wear, oil misting from the shock absorber, and persistent oil leakage from an unspecified source suggests that the undercarriage and drivetrain are areas warranting close physical scrutiny before purchase. With 85,820 miles recorded over approximately thirteen years, annual usage sits at roughly 6,600 miles, which is broadly typical for a small city-oriented vehicle such as the Fiat 500. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would imply extended periods of standing, nor is there evidence of unusually high annual mileage that would accelerate wear on major mechanical components. This average usage profile is consistent with the urban or suburban driving for which this model is intended, and means that consumable wear should be proportionate to the mileage recorded rather than exaggerated by either neglect or heavy use. Given the recurring advisories on suspension and oil leakage, a prospective buyer should carry out a targeted inspection and test drive with these defects in mind. On the road, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, drop links, or ball joints that may be deteriorating again. Pay particular attention to any signs of uneven front tyre wear, as the advisories suggest the front inner edges are wearing prematurely; this often points to worn suspension geometry, incorrect wheel alignment, or sagging springs. Inspect the rear coil springs for advanced corrosion and possible fracture, as corroded springs on a Fiat 500 of this age are a known weak point and can lead to sudden failure. Under the vehicle, look for fresh oil residue on the engine sump, rocker cover, and front shock absorber body, and check the shock absorber itself for any worsening oil weep beyond the light misting previously noted. Brake feel and stopping efficiency should also be evaluated, particularly for any pulling to one side or grinding sensations. Beyond the recorded advisories, a buyer of a thirteen-year-old Fiat 500 should also attend to age-related deterioration regardless of the clean MOT outcome. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres, including the spare, for perishing and cracking caused by age rather than wear, as rubber degrades over time even on lightly used vehicles. Check the 12 volt battery for its date code and load condition, since a battery of this age is likely approaching the end of its service life. Examine the brake discs for any lipping or surface corrosion, and verify that the calipers are not binding, particularly given the modest annual mileage which allows components to seize through underuse. Confirm that the cambelt or timing chain service interval has been observed according to Fiat's schedule, and request evidence of recent replacement of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage. Finally, ensure that all warning lights extinguish promptly on ignition and that the service history is fully documented with stamps or invoices to corroborate the DVSA record.