2017 SEAT Leon 2.0L Diesel · AF17 TYX

The latest MOT test results for the 2017 SEAT León indicate it passed on 2025-11-25 with a single advisory regarding rear brake pad wear, which is a recurring issue noted in several previous tests. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is mixed but leans towards a pattern of persistent minor issues rather than a clear deterioration. While there were two notable failures in 2022 and 2024—both involving critical damping failures in the rear suspension and brake pad wear—these were followed by passing tests, suggesting that while the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems have seen wear, they are not currently failing outright. The presence of advisories, particularly regarding brake pad wear and tyre condition, indicates that maintenance has been deferred or is due for attention, but the vehicle remains roadworthy pending these checks. The recorded mileage of 106,620 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,847 miles per annum, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for its class. There is no evidence of unusually rapid mileage accumulation, which would suggest higher stress on components like the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain. However, the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2022 and 2024—could imply periods of reduced use, potentially leading to secondary issues such as standing corrosion on brake discs, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in the cooling and hydraulic systems. The tyre advisories from 2021 highlight significant wear and perishing, which may indicate either prolonged standing or underinflation, both of which accelerate tyre degradation and pose safety risks. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring MOT advisories. On a test drive, listen for signs of worn or failing suspension components, such as excessive clunking or rattling from the rear, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for cracks or perishing on the shoulders, as seen in the 2021 MOT. The brake system should be evaluated for any signs of binding calipers, excessive brake pedal travel, or a grinding noise when applying brakes, which could signal worn pads or warped discs. Additionally, verify that the rear brake pads are not below the minimum legal thickness, as the 2024 and 2025 advisories suggest they are approaching replacement. Inspect the rear suspension for any signs of oil leaks or damaged bushes, and ensure the underbody is free of corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and exhaust components, where rust can compromise structural integrity. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s fluids, including the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, check the condition of the 12V battery, as standing vehicles can suffer from sulphation or terminal corrosion, which may require a deep discharge test or replacement. Examine the service history for any missing or outdated maintenance records, particularly for fluid changes, brake servicing, and suspension component replacements. Finally, address the engine under-tray insecurity noted in multiple MOTs, as this could lead to debris entering the engine bay or exhaust system, causing further damage. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, as well as a check of the exhaust emissions compliance, which may have been affected by prolonged idling or lack of use.