CUPRA ATECA COMFRT AND SND TSI 4D SA2021 · 2.0L PETROL

The most recent MOT on 2025-08-31 showed the vehicle passed with 38,018 miles, but a prior failure on 2025-08-22 revealed two critical issues: a supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning lamp fault and rear brakes that barely met imbalance requirements. These defects indicate potential safety risks, as the SRS fault could compromise airbag deployment, while uneven braking may affect handling and stopping distance. The 2024-08-05 MOT noted a minor battery insecurity, but this was not classified as a defect. The 2025 failure occurred just 17 miles before the subsequent pass, suggesting the owner addressed the SRS and braking issues promptly. However, the recurrence of braking system concerns (imbalanced rear brakes) and the SRS fault points to a pattern of emerging mechanical or electrical wear, rather than a one-off problem. The vehicle’s mileage of 38,018 miles over five years (about 7,604 miles per year) aligns with typical usage for its age, indicating moderate wear rather than excessive strain. However, the lack of significant defects in earlier MOTs (only the 2024 battery note) suggests the current issues may reflect a recent decline in maintenance standards or component degradation. The trend shows a shift from stable to slightly worsening conditions, as the 2025 failure highlights new safety-critical defects not previously recorded. While the vehicle passed its latest test, the proximity of the failure to the pass raises questions about the reliability of the SRS and braking systems. Buyers should prioritize inspecting these systems for lingering faults.