2021 SEAT Leon FR TSI EVO 1.5L Petrol · BN21 XTG

A consistent pattern of front-axle tyre degradation defines the MOT history of this 2021 SEAT Leon FR TSI EVO, with both nearside and offside front tyres appearing as advisories at every recorded test over three consecutive years. The most recent examination on 24 March 2026 recorded a pass, but flagged both front tyres as worn close to the legal limit at 1.6 mm, both as suffering slight damage or cracking/perishing, and additionally noted the tyre pressure monitoring system warning light illuminated. The 2024 and 2025 tests showed a similar story of cracking and perishing on all four tyres, with a nearside front edge-wear advisory appearing as early as 2024. The recurring nature of these advisories across successive annual tests points to an ongoing wear or rubbery deterioration issue rather than a one-off condition, and the simultaneous 1.6 mm tread reading on both fronts at the 2026 test suggests they have likely required replacement since. Against an average annual accumulation of roughly 4,091 miles, this vehicle has covered significantly less ground than typical for its five-year age bracket, placing it in the lower-mileage category where components such as brake discs, callipers, and certain rubber elements can suffer from extended periods of standing rather than active use. No extended testing gaps are evident in the DVSA history, with annual tests recorded at consistent twelve-month intervals across 2024, 2025, and 2026, indicating the vehicle has remained in active road use throughout. The relatively uniform mileage progression supports a picture of regular but light usage rather than long-term storage or sporadic short journeys, though the low annual figure still warrants consideration of corrosion on infrequently cycled brake parts and potential dry-rotting of exposed rubber components. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority is a thorough physical inspection of the tyres and wheels, particularly the front pair, given that edge wear at 1.6 mm on both sides simultaneously could indicate a tracking or geometry issue beyond simple rubber ageing. The TPMS warning light recorded at the 2026 test is also worth investigating directly, as it may reflect a genuine sensor failure, a recent wheel change where sensors were not recalibrated, or simply low pressures at the time of test. On a road test, pay close attention to steering behaviour: any pulling to one side, vibration through the wheel, or uneven tracking on a straight road would suggest the geometry has been compromised, which would also accelerate future shoulder or edge wear on replacement tyres. Listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as low-mileage cars can develop binding or stiff components in the linkages, anti-roll bar bushes, and MacPherson strut top mounts. The brake system should also be examined for signs of corrosion pitting or scoring on the discs, given the modest mileage, and the calliper slide pins and piston seals should be checked to confirm they are not seized from underuse, which can lead to uneven pad wear and reduced braking efficiency. A useful dynamic check is to perform several firm stops from around 30 mph to confirm the vehicle pulls up straight and without judder or vibration through the steering wheel, as a binding calliper on one side will cause noticeable pull. Finally, inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres closely for the recorded cracking and perishing pattern, noting whether new tyres have been fitted post-test, and confirm that the tread depth on the front pair now exceeds the legal 1.6 mm minimum before relying on the vehicle for regular use.