2010 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WP60 UHB

The 2010 Fiat 500 passed its most recent MOT on 11 September 2025 at 80,250 miles, but the result carries notable corrosion advisories rather than a clean bill of health. Both rear coil springs were flagged as corroded, and the central exhaust mounting was defective with slight corrosion present. A maintenance trend spanning the last two years shows a clear pattern of recurring rear suspension corrosion and deteriorating exhaust mounting hardware. The car failed its September 2025 test just three days prior to passing, initially presenting with exhaust emissions outside Lambda limits, a minor exhaust leak, headlamp aim faults, inoperative rear registration plate lamps, and the same rear coil spring corrosion. Several of those defects were rectified quickly, yet the corrosion advisories carried over into the pass, indicating surface-level fixes rather than a permanent resolution of the underlying rust. The recorded mileage of 80,250 over approximately 16 years equates to roughly 5,000 miles per year, which is notably low for a petrol city car of this age. The MOT history shows a gap between January 2024 at 76,671 miles and September 2025 at 80,250 miles, representing an accumulation of approximately 3,579 miles over 20 months. This suggests either very light use or extended periods of standing, both of which can accelerate corrosion in suspension components, brake system parts, and exhaust systems due to lack of regular heat cycling and movement. The record is relatively sparse with only five tests documented, so a buyer cannot rely on it to confirm consistent annual servicing or oil change intervals. A prospective buyer should focus the in-person inspection on the rear suspension area, particularly the lower coil spring seats and mounting points, where corrosion has been flagged in consecutive years. Corroded coil spring mountings can lead to sudden spring fracture, especially under load or on uneven surfaces. The exhaust system also warrants close attention, as a defective central mounting and corroded sections suggest the system may be hanging lower than intended, increasing stress on joints and flexi-brakes. Check for fresh welding or replacement parts that might indicate a recent cosmetic fix rather than a lasting repair. Brake components, including calipers, discs, and pads, should be inspected for uneven wear or binding, given the earlier advisory on front brake pads wearing thin in September 2024. Headlamp aim and the operation of all lighting, including registration plate lamps, should be verified, as the September 2025 failure recorded multiple electrical and aim-related defects that may have been resolved with temporary adjustments. Tyre condition, age, and sidewall integrity deserve attention on a vehicle that may have spent long periods stationary.