2016 SEAT Ateca 1.6L Diesel · BV66 HAA

The most recent MOT on 17 September 2025 was passed, but it carried two advisories concerning the rear braking system – the rear pads were reported as wearing thin and the rear discs were noted as corroded, pitted or scored. The preceding three years (2022‑2024) recorded clean passes with no defects, so the appearance of brake‑related advisories marks a modest deterioration in the vehicle’s maintenance trend. While the car remains road‑legal, the brake wear suggests that the next service interval will need to address rear brake refurbishment or replacement to prevent a future failure. At 64,748 miles for a 2016 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,500 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The mileage does not indicate any periods of unusually high use, nor are there obvious gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity beyond normal seasonal storage. Consequently the wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, gearbox and differential is likely to be proportionate to the mileage and not excessively accelerated, but the relatively modest usage does raise the possibility of age‑related degradation in parts that suffer from calendar wear rather than distance‑based wear. Prospective buyers should give the rear braking system close attention. Thin rear pads will soon reach the minimum thickness allowed and can lead to reduced braking efficiency, a spongy pedal feel or a pulsating sensation under heavy braking. Corroded rear discs may be scored enough to cause brake judder or uneven pad wear and could require resurfacing or full replacement. During a test drive listen for any squeal, grinding or metallic chatter from the rear wheels, and feel for any pull or loss of stability when applying the brakes. It is also prudent to inspect the front brakes, check the condition of the brake fluid (look for moisture or a dark colour) and verify that the ABS sensors are clean and securely fitted. The tyre advisories from the 2024 MOT indicate that the off‑side front tyre is down to 3 mm tread and the nearside rear tyre to 2 mm, both approaching the legal minimum. These tyres should be replaced promptly; uneven wear patterns may reveal alignment or suspension issues, so a professional wheel‑alignment check is advisable. Given the vehicle’s age, examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, hardening or dry rot, especially if the car has spent time standing. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any looseness, creaking or excessive play, as low mileage cars can develop corrosion or fatigue from inactivity. Finally, verify the health of the 12 V battery (check voltage and cranking performance), confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals, and look for service book stamps to substantiate a regular maintenance regime.