2017 Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol · WP67 EHB

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-03-13, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The same structural and mechanical issues — corroded coil springs, worn suspension bushes, corroded brake hoses, and consistently flagged front brake discs — reappeared in both the March 2026 tests, despite having passed in September 2024. The fact that the same suspension components failed in consecutive tests, alongside recurring brake and tyre concerns, indicates a pattern of deferred or incomplete repairs rather than a resolved condition. The battery insecurity and non-functional mileage/rev counter, while not critical, suggest a lack of attention to basic electrical and instrumentation systems. Mileage data is sparse and inconsistent, with no clear correlation to the vehicle’s age or test frequency. The 2024 test at 47,372 miles was followed by a failed test just two days later at the same mileage, which implies either a very short interval between inspections or a deliberate attempt to delay repairs. The 2023 test at 40,292 miles shows early signs of suspension wear and tyre degradation, which then escalated into more serious failures by 2024. Without a consistent mileage log, it’s impossible to determine whether the vehicle has been driven heavily or if the MOTs were spaced unusually close together to mask underlying issues. A buyer must inspect the suspension system in detail, particularly the front and rear coil springs, which have been corroded in multiple tests and are likely to be structurally compromised. The front brake discs, while not dangerously worn, have been flagged since 2023 and should be measured for thickness and surface condition. The corroded brake hoses, especially near the rear, pose a risk of failure under pressure and should be replaced immediately. Tyre condition is a recurring concern — the offside front tyre showed cracking and damage in 2026, and earlier tests noted underinflation and separation, indicating poor maintenance. The exhaust system corrosion and noisy rear drum brakes also warrant close examination for safety-critical wear. The non-functional rev counter and mileage display may be cosmetic, but they reflect a broader pattern of neglected diagnostics.