2015 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WM64 WRT

The most recent MOT on 9 March 2026 was a pass, but it was accompanied by several advisories covering rear coil‑spring corrosion, sub‑frame rust and front brake‑disc wear. Over the last two years the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in February 2025 to two failures in 2024 and early 2026, the latter involving a severely worn front suspension arm pin and an unsafe front‑brake pad thickness. Although the latest test cleared the car, the pattern of recurring corrosion and suspension wear indicates a deteriorating maintenance trend rather than a stable one. At 102 659 mi the Fiat 500 has logged roughly 9 300 mi per annum over its eleven‑year life, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a small city car. There are no obvious spikes or long gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest periods of heavy abuse or prolonged storage, so the wear observed is largely a function of age and average use rather than excessive mileage accumulation. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear coil springs and the rear sub‑frame, inspecting for surface rust, pitting or any loss of structural integrity that could lead to compromised handling or chassis flex. The front suspension arms—especially the nearside arm pin and the offside lower ball joint—must be checked for excessive play or worn bushings, which will manifest as clunking noises over bumps or a vague looseness in the steering. The front brake system warrants immediate scrutiny: the disc is already pitted and the pads were flagged as dangerously thin less than a year ago, so look for brake shudder, pedal pulsation or reduced stopping power, and be prepared for a brake‑pad and disc replacement as part of the next service. The engine sump corrosion noted in two recent advisories should be examined for any oil seepage around the crankcase, and the hand‑brake cable bracket should be verified as sound to avoid unexpected hand‑brake failure. Beyond the specific defects, age‑related checks are essential. Verify that the tyre sidewalls are free of cracking or dry‑rot, as rubber can degrade after six to eight years even on low‑mileage tyres. Test the 12 V battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, especially if the car has spent long periods idle. Confirm that all fluids—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—have been changed within the manufacturer’s time intervals, as calendar ageing can cause loss of lubricity and corrosion. Finally, ensure the service book is up to date, with stamps covering major items such as timing‑belt or chain, clutch, and any previous suspension or brake work, to give a clear picture of how well the vehicle has been maintained throughout its life.