2019 SEAT Ateca 1.5L Petrol · AF60 DAW

The most recent MOT, carried out on 16 February 2026, was passed with a single advisory concerning the off‑side rear tyre, noted as slightly damaged, cracking or perishing. All preceding tests over the past five years also resulted in passes with no recorded defects, indicating a consistently satisfactory maintenance record and no emerging mechanical failures. The lone advisory does not affect the legal roadworthiness of the vehicle but does highlight a component that warrants attention before the next test. At 34,792 mi the 2019 SEAT Ateca averages just under 5,000 mi per annum, which is well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. The low annual mileage suggests the car has spent a considerable amount of time stationary, possibly in a garage, rather than being subjected to high‑stress, high‑kilometre wear. While reduced mileage generally translates to lower wear on engine, transmission and suspension components, prolonged periods of inactivity can promote tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of brake discs or suspension joints if the vehicle has not been regularly moved. Prospective buyers should give the off‑side rear tyre a thorough visual inspection for any signs of sidewall cracking, tread separation or embedded foreign objects, and feel for any abnormal vibration or wobble during a short road‑test at moderate speed. If the tyre shows any deterioration, replacement is advisable not only to satisfy the MOT advisory but also to ensure consistent grip and handling. While the MOT record shows no brake or suspension issues, it is prudent to check the condition of the brake discs for surface rust or glazing, listen for any squeal or judder when applying the brakes, and verify that the suspension bushes and coil springs are free of excessive play or clunking noises, especially after the vehicle has been idle for long periods. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, attention should be paid to time‑based maintenance items: confirm that the 12‑volt battery has been tested and, if it is more than three years old, consider a load test or replacement to avoid unexpected failure; inspect all fluid levels, particularly engine oil, coolant and brake fluid, and ensure they have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals rather than mileage alone. Examine the tyre sidewalls on all four wheels for age‑related cracking, as tyres older than six years can degrade even with limited use. Finally, request a full service history to verify that scheduled services, such as timing‑belt or chain replacement, oil changes and filter renewals, have been performed, and look for any records of corrosion treatment to the under‑body and exhaust system, which can be a concern on vehicles that have spent extended periods stationary.