2004 SEAT Toledo 1.9L Diesel · FJ04 AOV

The 2022-04-13 MOT at 182,506 miles resulted in a failure due to critical safety defects including a cracked nearside front windscreen, non-functional central rear seat belt buckle, incorrect headlamp aim, a major exhaust leak from the central flexi, missing offside front steering rack gaiter, and a leaking nearside rear hydraulic brake calliper. This follows a pattern of escalating mechanical issues since the 2020-02-14 PASS at 170,765 miles, with no successful test since, indicating a worsening maintenance trend rather than stability or improvement. The vehicle has accumulated 11,741 miles since its last PASS, with no evidence of prolonged inactivity given the consistent annual mileage increases of approximately 8,000 miles per year from 2012 onward. The mileage progression shows steady usage without significant gaps, with the 182,506-mile reading reflecting typical wear for a 22-year-old vehicle averaging 8,296 miles annually. While the 2019-2020 period shows a 19,000-mile jump between tests, the overall record demonstrates continuous operation, with no periods of extended standing evident in the 14-year history. The absence of major structural repairs or chassis work in the record, combined with recurring suspension and brake faults, suggests the vehicle has been driven with deferred maintenance rather than stored or lightly used. A buyer should prioritize inspecting the suspension system, specifically the nearside rear shock absorber for fluid leaks, coil springs for fractures, and ball joints for excessive play as indicated by repeated failures since 2017. The recurring binding rear brake calliper and fractured coil springs point to potential suspension and braking system neglect, requiring verification of brake disc condition, caliper function, and handbrake efficiency. Additionally, the persistent exhaust leaks and missing steering gaiters necessitate checking for structural corrosion, particularly around the exhaust system and steering components, while the cracked windscreen and non-functional seat belt buckle confirm immediate safety risks that cannot be overlooked.