2014 SEAT Ibiza 1.6L Diesel · DE64 AAO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 May 2026, was passed but flagged an advisory that the nearside front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and shows edge wear. Earlier that year, on 27 March 2026, the vehicle failed with a series of major defects – a malfunctioning engine MIL, a loose centre‑exhaust clamp, a serious fluid leak from the off‑side rear shock absorber and the same tyre‑wear issue – together with a non‑functional central stop lamp. Since that failure the MOT record shows a return to passing results, albeit with a growing list of advisories concerning tyres, stop‑lamp illumination, minor exhaust corrosion and suspension component wear. The trend therefore indicates that the most serious faults have been rectified, but the vehicle continues to accumulate minor but recurring issues that merit close scrutiny before purchase. At 101,325 mi recorded in 2026 the Ibiza averages roughly 8,400 mi per year over its twelve‑year life, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a compact hatchback. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of storage, nor is there evidence of unusually high annual mileage that would accelerate wear of major drivetrain or structural components. Consequently the wear observed is broadly consistent with its age and mileage, but the pattern of tyre‑wear advisories and suspension corrosion suggests that the vehicle may have been driven on marginally worn tyres for an extended period, potentially increasing stress on the suspension and brakes. A prospective buyer should begin by inspecting all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and age – the DOT code on the sidewall will reveal whether the tyres are approaching the ten‑year limit, at which point rubber perishing can occur even if tread remains adequate. Pay particular attention to the nearside front tyre for edge wear, and to the rear and off‑side front tyres which have been repeatedly flagged as close to the legal limit; uneven wear may point to mis‑aligned wheels, worn suspension bushes or a failing rear brake caliper. During a test drive listen for clunking or low‑frequency thumps over bumps, which would indicate deteriorating shock absorber seals or corroded coil springs, and feel for any pull or vibration that could arise from a loose exhaust clamp or a binding rear brake. Verify that all stop lamps illuminate correctly, as the central and rear non‑obligatory lamps have been intermittently faulty; a simple bulb swap may resolve the issue, but persistent failure could hint at wiring corrosion. Given the age of the vehicle, also examine the condition of the under‑tray, rear exhaust back‑box and any visible exhaust hangers for rust or looseness, and check the rear coil springs for surface corrosion that could compromise spring integrity. Inspect the rear brake discs for rust spots or uneven wear that might cause shudder, and ensure the caliper pistons move freely without sticking. A battery that is more than three years old should be load‑tested, and all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be checked for signs of degradation or water contamination, with a full service interval change recommended if service stamps are missing or the last change predates the typical 12‑month schedule. Confirm that the service book records regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain maintenance (if applicable), and any previous repairs to the shock absorbers or exhaust system, as these records will give confidence that the recurring advisories have been addressed and that the vehicle remains mechanically sound for continued road use.