2012 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · CH02 MAZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 28 August 2025 recorded a PASS, with a single advisory noting that covers were fitted which slightly obscured an oil leak. No further advisories were raised on that occasion, suggesting the vehicle is currently maintaining a roadworthy standard. Reviewing the history holistically, the 2022 test stands out as the most concerning year, when four advisories were issued including rear sub-frame and rear anti-roll bar corrosion, a distorted offside rear inner road wheel, and damage to under-body and wheel arch plastic trims. Subsequent tests have returned to one or two advisories each, with the 2023 test recording no advisories at all. Overall, the trend appears to be stabilising rather than progressively worsening, although the recurring tyre wear and structural corrosion advisories from prior years do indicate ongoing wear items that require continued monitoring by any prospective purchaser. At 177,848 miles over approximately fourteen years, this Alhambra has accumulated roughly 12,700 miles per annum, which is above average for a vehicle of this age and indicates consistent, fairly heavy use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record, which suggests the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for extended periods. This high annual mileage has direct mechanical implications, particularly for the clutch, dual-mass flywheel (if diesel or manual), turbocharger, suspension bushes, and engine oil consumption, as well as brake discs and pads, all of which will have experienced considerably more wear than a typical lower-mileage example. Any prospective buyer should anticipate that major drivetrain or suspension components may be closer to the end of their service life than the recorded advisories alone might suggest. The recurring tyre edge wear advisories spanning from 2019 through 2024 are a notable pattern and typically indicate either incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or worn coil springs causing uneven contact with the road surface. A buyer should carry out a careful test drive listening for suspension clonks over uneven surfaces, particularly at low speed, and inspect the nearside rear and front tyres for uneven shoulder wear indicative of camber or toe misalignment. The rear sub-frame and anti-roll bar corrosion noted in 2022 should be physically inspected by placing the vehicle on a ramp to assess the extent of any progression; surface corrosion that was not seriously weakened two years ago could deteriorate further, particularly if the vehicle has been used through winter months or stored in damp conditions. The slightly distorted rear wheels recorded in 2021 and 2022 suggest the vehicle may have been kerbed or impacted, and a close inspection of the rear wheels for cracks, buckling, or balance issues during a test drive is advisable. Given the high mileage and age, a thorough pre-purchase inspection should also include verification of recent cambelt or timing chain service history depending on the engine variant fitted, confirmation of coolant and brake fluid replacement within the recommended calendar intervals, and a check of the 12V battery health as these units typically deteriorate after five to seven years regardless of mileage. The persistent rear bump stop splits noted in 2019 and 2020 indicate the suspension has been working hard, and any knocking or excessive travel over bumps on a test drive would warrant immediate attention. The slight oil leak referenced in the most recent advisory should be traced to identify its source, as oil leaks from camchain tensioners, sump gaskets, or crankshaft seals on high-mileage TSI or TDI engines can escalate rapidly. Finally, request evidence of recent replacement of brake discs and pads front and rear, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion around the mounting points and joints, and ensure the under-engine and under-body plastic shields are intact to protect the mechanical components from road grit and moisture ingress.