2008 SEAT Leon 1.9L Diesel · RV08 ADZ

The latest MOT test in 2021 resulted in a failure, with major defects including a non-functional front windscreen washer system and an excessively worn nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint, alongside advisories for a deteriorating rear registration plate, missing offside rear door glass, and limited handbrake reserve travel. The preceding history reveals a concerning trend, as the 2020 tests recorded multiple dangerous defects, including front tyre tread depths below the legal limit, fractured and seriously weakened front brake discs, and critically thin brake pads. While the vehicle passed in 2019 and 2018 with no defects, the rapid deterioration evident in 2020 and the subsequent 2021 failure suggest a period of neglected maintenance, particularly in suspension and braking components, followed by partial but inconsistent remediation. At 180,829 miles over 18 years, the annual average of approximately 10,000 miles is typical for a vehicle of this age, indicating neither unusually high wear nor prolonged inactivity. However, the mileage accumulation around 2020 coincides with the emergence of severe defects, implying that high usage during that period may have exacerbated wear on critical components such as tyres, brake discs, and pads. The absence of extended gaps in mileage suggests the car has been in regular use, which, while beneficial for preventing issues like brake binding or fluid stagnation, also means consumables and suspension parts are likely approaching or have exceeded their service life. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and braking system, as the history of worn anti-roll bar ball joints, fractured brake discs, and thin brake pads indicates these areas have been under significant stress. On a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks from the front suspension over rough surfaces, which could signal worn ball joints or bushes, and assess braking performance for unevenness, shuddering, or excessive pedal travel, which may reveal warped discs or uneven pad wear. Additionally, check the handbrake for adequate reserve travel and effectiveness, as the 2021 advisory suggests potential cable stretch or rear brake adjustment issues. The missing offside rear door glass and deteriorating registration plate, while not mechanical, may indicate a lack of attention to detail in maintenance. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, also inspect for signs of general wear and corrosion. Examine the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate suspension misalignment or worn bushes, and check for sidewall cracking due to age. Assess the condition of brake hoses and pipes for signs of perishing or leaks, and verify the operation of all lights, including headlamp aim, as previous failures have been recorded in this area. Finally, review the service history for evidence of regular fluid changes, particularly brake fluid, which degrades over time, and consider the health of the 12V battery, as high-mileage vehicles often experience electrical system strain. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to confirm the structural integrity and roadworthiness of this vehicle.