I have a 1997 fiat punto sporting 1.2 16v,my mot advisory notice said "nearside rear suspension arm has slight play in a pin/bush",i have since taken it to a garage they looked at it and booked it in for a new radius arm,can anyone advise me if this is right as i know nothing about cars.It makes a loud knocking noise when you drive over bumps in the road.Please could someone help me out

Yep, sounds about right.

The radius arm is the part the rear wheel and brake is bolted too. The whole assembly pivots on a pin and bush where it bolts to the rear subframe, allowing the wheel to move upward or downward when you go over bumps or turn corners. When the bush collapses or the pin gets worn the arm is free to rattle around which causes the noises you are experiencing.

It is possible to get repair kits for them (basically new pins and bushes) but they can be a PITA to fit so its cheaper in labour to just fit a new arm.

You should expect to pay around £50 for the privilege of a new arm, plus labour.

Thanx for the quick reply,thats excellent,thanx for explaining it properly,could you tell me if its dangerous to drive only its not booked in until wednesday

Radius arms are an MOT test item because if there is excess play there is a possibility of fracture due to wear (and debris ingress). As it's just had it's MOT and it was only flagged as an advisory then I personally would not be concerned.

Thanx again for your good advice