2017 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WO17 EFK

The 2017 Fiat 500 presents a mixed mechanical picture. The most recent MOT, passed on 22 September 2025 at 67,098 miles, shows a vehicle that is fundamentally roadworthy but carrying several minor advisories that have persisted across multiple tests. The maintenance trend is broadly stable rather than sharply worsening, though it is not improving. Front shock absorbers have been flagged for light oil misting in both the 2025 and 2024 tests, and a suspension mounting area on the axle has been noted as corroded but not excessive across the same period. Brake hose deterioration and ferrule corrosion also appeared in both 2025 tests. These are not new failures but recurring low-level advisories that suggest the car has been kept running without fully addressing wear items. The mileage pattern is consistent and unremarkable. The vehicle recorded 53,844 miles in November 2023, 62,268 miles in October 2024, and 67,098 miles by September 2025. That is roughly 8,400 miles added over twelve months from late 2023 to late 2024, then approximately 4,800 miles in the nine months leading to the September 2025 test. The annualised rate sits close to 7,500 miles per year over its life, which is typical for a small city car. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record that would suggest clocking or prolonged standing. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the front suspension and braking system. The repeated advisory for light oil misting on both front shock absorbers warrants a close check for damping performance and whether the misting has progressed to active dripping. The corroded suspension mounting area on the axle, while deemed not excessive at the last test, should be examined with a torch and probe to confirm it has not worsened structurally. Brake hoses and ferrules showing corrosion and deterioration should be flexed and inspected for cracking or swelling, as aged rubber lines can fail without warning under pressure. The 2024 failure for exhaust gas leakage and elevated hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide readings suggests the exhaust system and engine health deserve attention, particularly around manifold joints and lambda sensor function. Steering rack free play, flagged in 2024 and noted as an advisory in 2023, should be checked with the wheels raised to confirm whether it has progressed beyond slight play into something requiring rack or inner joint replacement. Tyre wear patterns from the 2024 test indicate possible alignment or suspension geometry issues that may still be present.