2022 Cupra Formentor V1 TSI S-A 1.5L Petrol · CE22 FMP

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2022 CUPRA TSI S-A recorded a passing outcome on 2026-07-24, with the sole advisory pertaining to the nearside rear tyre exhibiting wear close to the legal limit and appearing worn on the edge—a condition that typically indicates either excessive cornering forces, misaligned wheels, or uneven tyre pressure distribution. This advisory, while not failing the vehicle, suggests a recurring or persistent issue that should be monitored closely, as it may reflect underlying suspension or alignment problems or simply reflect the natural wear progression of a tyre in regular use. The absence of any other defects or advisories in the prior MOT test on 2025-02-25 indicates a stable maintenance trend thus far, with no evidence of worsening mechanical degradation. However, the advisory itself warrants attention, particularly if the vehicle is driven frequently or subjected to aggressive cornering, as such wear patterns can accelerate if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 47,469 miles for a 2022 model represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,867 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a modern performance-oriented compact SUV of this class. While 47,469 miles is not exceptionally high for its age, the slight increase from the prior MOT date—just over three months earlier—could imply either a period of higher usage or minor operational stress, such as frequent short trips that can lead to fluid degradation or condensation-related corrosion if the vehicle is left in a damp environment. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle is in active use, which may contribute to wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and exhaust systems, though the overall mileage remains within a manageable range for a four-year-old model. It is worth noting that lower mileage figures could sometimes indicate prolonged periods of inactivity, which can lead to issues such as battery discharge, standing corrosion on brake discs or exhaust components, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Given the advisory on the nearside rear tyre and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and steering components to identify any signs of misalignment or excessive wear. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the rear suspension, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, coil spring damage, or binding in the rear axle mounts. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns beyond the advisory—such as cupping or directional wear—which may signal alignment or camber issues. Additionally, visually inspect the rear tyres for signs of bulges or cracks, as these could indicate internal damage or premature failure. The buyer should also verify that the vehicle’s brake system is functioning correctly, paying particular attention to any signs of pulsation or shuddering during braking, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. If the advisory persists after a professional alignment, further investigation into the suspension geometry may be necessary. For the broader vehicle inspection, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, the buyer should prioritise checks on the tyre condition beyond the advisory, particularly focusing on sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity over time. Inspect the tyre tread depth on all tyres, including the nearside rear, to ensure they meet or exceed the legal minimum of 1.6mm, and replace any tyres that are worn to this limit or beyond. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as prolonged inactivity or frequent short trips can lead to battery degradation or sulphation. Check the brake discs for signs of corrosion, pitting, or binding, especially on the nearside rear, where the advisory suggests potential exposure to moisture or standing. Fluid levels, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, should be topped up if low, and the fluids themselves should be checked for contamination or discolouration, as these can indicate time-based degradation. Finally, the service history book should be reviewed to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacement (if applicable), has been completed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as this will help mitigate future wear and failure risks.