2015 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WM65 FTD

The most recent DVSA MOT test was conducted on 15 January 2026 and resulted in a pass with no advisories or defects recorded, indicating that the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements at that point. The overall maintenance trend across the recorded tests is stable, with passes on every occasion since 2019 and only one isolated failure in January 2023, which was rectified and followed by three consecutive clean passes. The advisory issued at the January 2025 test concerning front tyre wear on both edges was not repeated at the 2026 examination, suggesting the tyres were replaced in the intervening period. The earlier failure related to excessively worn upper shock absorber bushes at the rear is a known wear item on the FIAT 500 platform and is not an indicator of structural concern, provided remedial work was carried out to a satisfactory standard. With a recorded mileage of 42,112 miles over approximately eleven years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 3,800 miles annually, which is considerably below the national average for a car of this age. This low annual usage figure suggests either predominantly short urban journeys, a second-car status, or extended periods of standing between uses. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine and gearbox, it introduces a different set of age-related concerns. Vehicles that are used sparingly are particularly susceptible to deterioration of perishable materials and components that rely on regular exercise to remain serviceable. Given the low mileage and the eleven-year age of this FIAT 500, particular attention should be paid to items that degrade through calendar age rather than through use. The tyres, although recently replaced to address the 2025 advisory, should be inspected closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as tyres older than five years can develop dry rot even with adequate tread depth. The 12-volt battery is a common failure point on cars of this age and should be load-tested, as a marginal battery may pass an MOT but still leave the driver vulnerable to starting issues. Brake discs are prone to surface corrosion from standing, which can manifest as brake shudder or vibration under light pedal pressure; a thorough test drive should include several firm stops to confirm smooth operation. Similarly, the handbrake mechanism and caliper slides can seize through lack of use, and a low-speed hill start should be performed to confirm the vehicle does not pull to one side, which would indicate a binding caliper. Fluid servicing should be verified independently of the MOT record, as these items are not assessed under the test. Engine oil and filter changes should be confirmed against time as well as mileage, with annual replacement recommended regardless of use. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture over time, with renewal typically required every two years to prevent internal corrosion of the braking system. Coolant integrity should also be confirmed, particularly given the age of the vehicle. Finally, a careful listen for any clonks or rattles from the rear suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces would be prudent to confirm the durability of the shock absorber bushes replaced following the 2023 failure, and the underbody should be inspected for corrosion typical of a small city car that may have endured winter road salt exposure.