2016 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · YJ65 AAT

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 SEAT Ibiza recorded a passing outcome on 2026-01-26, following a failed inspection two months prior. Despite this improvement, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly with the front wheel bearings and suspension arm bushings, which have been flagged as either major failures or advisories across multiple tests. The front wheel bearings exhibited rough rotation and excessive play in 2024-01-30 and 2025-01-22, indicating progressive wear that has not been fully addressed, while the suspension arm bushings consistently show signs of wear but without severe movement. This suggests a maintenance gap where critical components have either been neglected or have been allowed to deteriorate beyond the point of minor advisories into potential major failures, warranting immediate attention to prevent further damage to the wheel assembly and suspension system. The recorded mileage of 145,544 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a high annual usage rate of around 14,554 miles per annum, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, as well as fluid degradation over time. The consistent presence of worn tyres close to legal limits—particularly on the front wheels—further underscores the vehicle’s heavy use, with edge wear often resulting from underinflation, improper alignment, or excessive load distribution. The lack of significant mileage gaps suggests the car has been in regular, demanding service, which may explain the accelerated wear observed in the suspension and wheel bearing systems. For the prospective buyer, the most critical inspection areas should focus on the front wheel bearings and suspension components, given their recurring MOT issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as grinding or humming, which could indicate bearing failure or misalignment. Inspect the suspension for excessive clunking or rattling, particularly when driving over bumps, which may reveal worn or broken suspension arm bushings. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the front tyres, which could point to misalignment or camber issues stemming from suspension wear. Additionally, visually inspect the front wheel bearings for leaks or excessive play by gently rotating the wheels—any wobble or resistance suggests further deterioration. Immediate servicing of the front wheel bearings and suspension arm bushings is strongly advised to prevent premature failure of the wheel assembly, which could lead to a wheel detachment or steering instability. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s high mileage and age necessitate a thorough inspection of other critical systems. Verify the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition, as high mileage and prolonged use can accelerate sidewall perishing, which may compromise structural integrity. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can lead to reduced braking efficiency or even failure. Inspect the 12V battery and associated electrical connections for signs of corrosion or poor contact, which can exacerbate issues with the alternator or starter motor. Lastly, consider the age-related wear on fluids such as the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time even without mileage. A professional fluid analysis or service history check would be prudent to confirm the vehicle’s internal condition, particularly if no service book is available. While the latest MOT passed, the historical data strongly suggests that preventative maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or safety hazards.