2017 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · KU67 BNB

The latest MOT test passed in March 2026 with no defects recorded, indicating that the significant safety failures identified in the previous year have been rectified. However, the overall maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventative. The 2025 failure for dangerous brake pad wear and exposed tyre cords suggests that critical safety components were allowed to reach a state of imminent failure before intervention occurred. While the most recent result is clean, the history of recurring advisories for tyres and brakes indicates a pattern of running consumables to their absolute legal limits rather than following a proactive replacement schedule. The recorded mileage of 145,750 miles over nine years reflects an average annual usage of approximately 16,194 miles, which is considered high for a vehicle of this age. This level of mileage suggests heavy, consistent usage, which can often be preferable to a vehicle that has sat idle, as it typically means components like seals and bearings have been regularly lubricated. However, the mechanical implications of such high mileage are significant; the vehicle is entering a stage where major wear items, including the turbocharger, clutch assembly, gearbox, and various suspension bushings, are more likely to require significant investment or replacement. Given the documented history of brake and tyre issues, you must pay close attention to the rear braking system and tyre condition during your inspection. The 2025 advisory regarding pitted and scored rear brake discs suggests that while the pads were replaced to clear the dangerous failure, the discs themselves may still be nearing the end of their service life. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing noises when applying the brakes and feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the brake pedal, which are classic symptoms of unevenly worn or warped discs. You should also check for any signs of binding calipers, as uneven tyre wear and premature pad depletion can often be caused by a caliper that is not releasing properly. The recurring advisories for tyre wear and the previous failure for exposed cords necessitate a careful inspection of the vehicle's suspension and wheel alignment. Check the inner edges of all tyres for irregular wear patterns, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, ball joints, or incorrect camber settings. Additionally, the 2023 advisory regarding a corroded offside rear coil spring means you should inspect the spring for any signs of heavy oxidation or fractures. Finally, because of the high mileage, it is imperative to verify the service history for evidence of major interval maintenance, specifically the replacement of the timing belt and water pump, to avoid the risk of catastrophic engine failure.