2017 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WP67 EEW

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-03-14, but the maintenance trend is worsening. While the car passed with no critical failures, multiple suspension components showed signs of wear or fluid leakage — light oil misting on front shock absorbers and worn bushes on rear upper mounts — and the nearside front tyre was dangerously close to the legal tread limit. The exhaust silencer’s deteriorating flexi section and the loose clutch fluid tank indicate neglect of minor but cumulative wear items. These are not immediate safety risks, but they point to a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than proactive care. The mileage history reveals a low annual average of roughly 5,442 miles over nine years, which is unusually low for a 2017 model. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests shows only 4,020 miles added, and the 2023 to 2024 interval saw just 3,492 miles — suggesting the car has been driven infrequently or stored for periods. This low usage may explain the relatively clean 2024 MOT, but it also means components like tyres, suspension bushes, and brake systems have not been subjected to regular wear cycles, which can lead to uneven degradation or binding in parts that sit idle. Buyers should inspect the front and rear suspension bushes and shock absorber mounts closely, as these have been flagged twice in the last two years and show no signs of improvement. The nearside front tyre’s edge wear in March 2026 suggests uneven load or alignment issues that may have been ignored. The exhaust flexi section’s deterioration is a structural concern that could lead to leaks or failure if left unaddressed. Brake components, particularly the parking brake cables noted in 2023, should be checked for stiffness or corrosion, as these are often overlooked in low-mileage vehicles. The clutch fluid tank’s loose condition also warrants a visual and functional check for leaks or pressure loss. Overall, the car’s mechanical condition is serviceable but not robust. The low mileage is a positive indicator of gentle use, but the recurring suspension and tyre issues suggest the previous owner did not maintain the vehicle to a high standard. A buyer should budget for minor suspension replacements, tyre replacement, and exhaust work, and should have a pre-purchase inspection focused on brake and suspension integrity to avoid unexpected costs down the line.