2005 SEAT Leon 1.8L Petrol · CW05 FSF

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend in mechanical degradation and structural corrosion. The most recent test in February 2025 at 138,982 miles flagged a significant number of advisories including persistent oil leaks, power steering seepage, and a minor exhaust leak. While the car passed, the increasing frequency of failures related to the suspension and braking systems suggests that the vehicle is entering a stage of life where components are being replaced only upon failure rather than through preventative maintenance. At 138,982 miles, this 21-year-old SEAT has averaged approximately 6,600 miles per year, which is consistent with low-mileage usage. The data shows a steady pattern of mileage accumulation with intervals of roughly 3,000 to 4,000 miles between tests, suggesting the car is used regularly but not extensively. The low mileage has not prevented age-related wear, particularly regarding rubber components and metal-surface oxidation, as evidenced by the recurring reports of corrosion on the rear axle and suspension components. A buyer must prioritize a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and underbody, as the record consistently notes corroding on the rear axle, brake pipes, and inner hoses back to 2019. The front suspension is a known point of failure, with worn arm bushes and damaged strut mounts appearing in tests across 2019, 2020, and 2025. The persistent oil leaks and power steering seepage noted since 2021 require a professional assessment to determine if these are minor weeping seals or developing engine component failures. The braking system shows a history of neglect, with binding calipers and imbalanced performance flagged in 2016, 2018, and 2021. The buyer should verify the current state of the rear brake discs and the integrity of the flexible brake hoses. Given the previous failures for exposed cords and low tread depth, the current condition of the tyres should also be checked to ensure they are not nearing the legal limit again.