2016 SEAT Leon 1.4L Petrol · WL16 AAV

A fractured off‑side rear coil spring in 2023 marks the most serious defect on this 2016 SEAT Leon, and the MOT record shows that the suspension issue was addressed, as subsequent tests have recorded only advisory items. Brake wear has been a recurring theme, with thin rear pads and front discs noted as advisory concerns from September 2023 onward, yet the latest test in April 2026 passed without any defects, indicating that the immediate safety‑critical failures have been resolved but that the braking system remains a point of attention. At 84,091 miles the vehicle averages roughly 8,400 miles per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal UK usage for a ten‑year‑old car. The MOT history is continuous with annual testing, showing no prolonged periods of inactivity that might conceal hidden deterioration. The moderate annual mileage aligns with the observed brake wear, suggesting that the consumables have been subjected to typical wear cycles rather than extreme abuse, but the mileage alone does not preclude the need for component replacement given the advisory trends. Prospective buyers should focus the test drive on rear‑suspension behaviour: listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any unevenness or excessive bounce that could indicate lingering issues with the coil spring or associated mounting points. A visual inspection of the rear suspension bushes and shock absorbers for oil leakage or cracked rubber will help confirm that the repair was comprehensive. On the braking front, assess pedal travel and firmness; any pulsation, sponginess, or grinding noise may signal that the front discs, already noted as pitted, are approaching the end of their service life, while the thin rear pads could soon require replacement to maintain balanced braking performance. Given the documented brake advisories and the history of a major rear‑suspension failure, budgeting for a full brake service—including replacement of the front discs and rear pads—and a thorough suspension check is prudent. An independent mechanical inspection that measures disc thickness, checks pad wear, and inspects the rear spring mounts will provide a clear picture of remaining life and any latent faults before committing to purchase.