2018 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · EJ67 AAN

The latest MOT test for the 2018 SEAT Alhambra on 2025-11-17 resulted in a failure due to a non-functional offside front position lamp, alongside a minor windscreen damage advisory that did not affect driver visibility. This marks a deviation from the previous two clean passes in 2024 and 2023, suggesting a potential recurring issue with the vehicle’s lighting system or a more persistent underlying problem affecting both the lamp and windscreen integrity. The presence of a minor failure rather than a major defect indicates the lamp is likely a straightforward electrical or wiring fault, but the windscreen’s history—including a prior advisory in 2023—points to ongoing or recurring damage that may warrant closer inspection for structural or impact-related wear. While the 2023 test recorded no other defects, the advisory on tyre wear close to legal limits in that year highlights a pattern of attention needed for tyre management, particularly on the offside rear. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 97,265 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,158 miles per year, which is notably elevated for an eight-year-old car. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, as well as on drivetrain elements such as the transmission and exhaust. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT history suggests the vehicle has been in active use, which may explain the observed wear patterns, including the tyre advisory from 2023. However, the high mileage also raises concerns about potential long-term issues, such as increased susceptibility to corrosion in standing areas, accelerated fluid degradation, or premature failure of high-mileage-specific components like the offside rear suspension bushes or exhaust flex plates. It is prudent to consider whether the usage profile aligns with the vehicle’s original specifications or if it has been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the electrical system, particularly the offside front position lamp circuit, as the failure may stem from a wiring harness issue, a faulty lamp module, or a more systemic problem like a damaged fuse or relay. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in the lamp’s operation, such as intermittent flashes or a complete lack of response when the indicator is engaged. Additionally, check for any associated symptoms of electrical gremlins, such as unusual dashboard lights or warning signs from the vehicle’s diagnostic system. The tyre advisory from 2023 indicates that the offside rear tyre may have been underused or subjected to uneven loading, leading to edge wear and potential internal damage. Inspect the tyre’s internal structure for signs of cord or fabric separation, which could compromise safety, and measure the remaining tread depth to ensure compliance with legal limits. Beyond the MOT findings, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s age-appropriate wear and potential standing-related issues. Given the high mileage, focus on the suspension system for signs of excessive play or binding, particularly in the offside rear area where tyre wear was noted. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. Check the brake system for uneven wear, corrosion on discs, or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been parked for extended periods, as standing corrosion can lead to seized components. Inspect the engine bay and undercarriage for oil leaks, coolant leaks, or signs of fluid degradation, such as sludge buildup in the oil dipstick tube or a dark, tarry fluid in the coolant reservoir. For the windscreen, verify that any cracks or damage do not extend into the driver’s line of sight or affect structural integrity, as repeated impacts can compromise visibility and safety. Finally, test the 12V battery’s charge cycle by starting the engine and monitoring the alternator’s output, as high mileage can accelerate battery failure. If the battery is old or shows signs of weakness, consider replacing it to prevent electrical system failures, particularly in the lighting and indicator circuits. Additionally, review the service history for any missing or outdated fluid servicing, such as brake fluid flushes or coolant changes, which are critical for maintaining performance and avoiding corrosion-related failures.