2020 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · AX69 EYB

The most recent MOT inspection for this SEAT Alhambra resulted in a pass, but the recent history indicates a period of declining maintenance standards and increasing mechanical attention required. While the vehicle passed in November 2025, the preceding months saw multiple failures related to lighting compatibility and seat belt mechanisms. The trend suggests a shift from a clean record in 2024 to a more reactive maintenance approach in late 2025, where components are being addressed only at the point of MOT failure. This pattern of intermittent failures for relatively simple items like bulbs and seat belt retractors suggests that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy, it may not be receiving proactive preventative maintenance. The vehicle has covered 163,022 miles in approximately six years, which equates to an annual average of roughly 27,170 miles. This is significantly higher than the UK average and categorises this as a high-mileage vehicle. Such intensive usage implies that the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems have been subjected to substantial mechanical stress. While high mileage often suggests regular motorway use, which can be less taxing on certain components than stop-start urban driving, the sheer volume of mileage means that wear on consumables like bushings, dampers, and clutch components is likely well advanced. You should expect a shorter remaining service life for many major mechanical assemblies compared to a lower-mileage equivalent. A critical area of concern is the recurring advisory regarding tyre wear, specifically noting that multiple tyres are worn close to the legal limit and showing uneven wear on the edges. This is a significant indicator of potential suspension or wheel alignment issues. During your test drive, listen closely for any knocking or clunking sounds from the front or rear suspension, which could indicate worn bushes or ball joints. Additionally, monitor the steering for any pulling to one side or vibrations through the steering wheel, as uneven tyre wear often points to incorrect camber or toe settings. The repeated mention of edge wear suggests that the geometry of the suspension may be compromised, which will lead to rapid and costly tyre replacement if not rectified. Furthermore, the history of brake pad wear and previous dangerous failures regarding brake thickness necessitates a thorough inspection of the braking system. Check for any brake shudder under heavy deceleration or a spongy pedal feel, which could indicate warped discs or air in the hydraulic system. The advisory regarding a damaged seat belt webbing in the first row and a defective retracting mechanism in the centre row also requires immediate attention for passenger safety. Ensure all seat belts tension correctly and retract smoothly without hesitation. Given the high mileage and the recent history of electrical and mechanical advisories, I strongly recommend verifying the service history to ensure that fluid changes, such as timing belt replacements and brake fluid flushes, have been performed according to the manufacturer's interval rather than just at the point of MOT failure.