2015 Fiat Qubo 1.2L Diesel · YY64 MXM

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2015 FIAT QUBO took place on 17 September 2021, where the vehicle was issued a PASS alongside two advisories. However, it is important to note that a separate FAILED entry is recorded on the same date, with a Major defect cited for excessive play in the offside track rod end ball joint. Although the vehicle subsequently passed, the failed assessment on the same day indicates that significant repair work was undertaken immediately prior to the pass certificate being issued, and a prospective buyer should verify that a genuine replacement track rod end has been fitted rather than merely adjusted to mask the wear. Reviewing the broader MOT history reveals a maintenance trend that is concerning rather than stable, with recurring issues around the power steering system, front brake condition, and front suspension wear appearing across multiple tests. The 2020 entry showed dangerous brake pads below 1.5 mm, corroded front discs, uneven front tyre wear, and oil seepage from power steering pipes, while the 2019 test recorded a dangerously cord-exposed nearside front tyre and an excessively binding offside front service brake. This pattern suggests persistent neglect of the front braking and steering components and warrants close scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 86,557 miles over approximately 11 years equates to an annual usage rate of around 7,869 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and is consistent with light to moderate daily use rather than long-distance motorway driving. There are no significant mileage gaps recorded between consecutive MOT tests, indicating the vehicle has been used consistently throughout its life, which is mechanically favourable as it reduces the likelihood of standing-related deterioration. That said, the higher accumulated mileage brings corresponding wear to consumable items such as clutches, timing belts, exhaust mounts, and suspension bushes, all of which require greater attention on a used car of this vintage and distance. The recurring advisories relating to power steering pipe seepage are particularly noteworthy, as a hose that has been seeping since 2020 will progressively worsen, potentially leading to a sudden loss of power assistance, whining from the pump, or visible fluid on the driveway. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any groaning or stiffness through the steering at low speed, observe for fluid accumulation under the front of the vehicle, and check the reservoir level and condition of the fluid itself. The 2019 advisory concerning a binding offside front brake caliper is also a significant concern, as binding calipers can lead to uneven brake pad wear, pulling to one side under braking, excessive fuel consumption, and overheating of the affected disc. The buyer should perform a careful rolling test by releasing the handbrake on a level surface, confirming the vehicle rolls freely, and check for any residual drag, hot wheels after a short drive, or uneven brake disc wear patterns. Beyond the recorded defects, general age and mileage considerations for an eleven-year-old FIAT QUBO with nearly 87,000 miles should include a thorough physical inspection of the tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking due to age, even if the tread depth appears adequate, and a check of the 12V battery, which typically requires replacement every five to six years and may be due. The cooling system, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid should be considered time-served rather than mileage-served, and confirmation of recent servicing history would be advisable. The 2018 advisory regarding a damaged windscreen within zone A is minor but should be inspected to ensure no water ingress or further cracking has developed. Finally, the 2021 advisory for a damaged bonnet stay should be verified as repaired, as this is a safety-critical item preventing the bonnet from striking the windscreen when opened. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic with the vehicle raised on a ramp would be strongly recommended to assess the underside for corrosion, exhaust integrity, and any oil or fluid leaks not visible from above.