2009 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WP59 FVT

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a clean pass in July 2025 at 111,301 miles. However, the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The failure recorded just one mile prior to the last pass indicates multiple safety-critical defects, including an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, a worn Macpherson strut top, and significant parking brake inefficiency. While these issues appear to have been rectified, the frequency of mechanical failures suggests that the owner only addresses faults when they threaten an MOT certificate. At 111,301 miles over 17 years, the car averages approximately 6,500 miles per year, which is consistent with low-to-mid-range urban use. The data shows steady usage, with roughly 16,300 miles driven between July 2024 and July 2025, and another 13,700 miles between September 2023 and July 2024. This consistent mileage suggests the vehicle is not sat for long periods, which generally prevents the degradation of rubber components and seals despite the older age. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and braking system. The failure in September 2023 at 91,131 miles for a corroded and seriously weakened offside rear sub-frame is a major red flag for a Fiat of this age; verification that this part was properly replaced and that corrosion has not spread to adjacent areas is essential. Given the recent failed suspension ball joint and parking brake, a physical check for play in the steering geometry and a test of the handbrake mechanism should ensure these components are not already reaching the end of their service life.