2020 SEAT Ibiza 1.0L Petrol · CY20 ACF

The most recent MOT test on this 2020 SEAT Ibiza took place on 28 April 2026 and resulted in a pass, although it was preceded by a fail earlier that same day on tyre grounds. The overall maintenance trend from the recorded history appears broadly stable but with a clear and worsening pattern relating to tyre condition. In 2024 the test was passed with no defects recorded at all, then in 2025 a fail was issued for a non-functioning windscreen washer alongside an advisory for offside front tyre perishing, and in 2026 a dangerous failure was recorded for ply or cords exposed on the offside front tyre accompanied by an advisory on the nearside rear. While the vehicle continues to pass once remedied, the recurrence of tyre deterioration advisories across consecutive tests indicates that sidewall degradation is progressing faster than routine replacement intervals, which warrants close scrutiny before purchase. With 42,654 miles recorded over approximately six years, the vehicle has covered around 7,100 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. There are no obvious extended gaps in the recorded mileage progression that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor is there evidence of unusually rapid accumulation that would point to heavy motorway use. This average annual mileage means consumable wear on items such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and the clutch should be moderate rather than severe, and the lack of recorded advisories on braking components or suspension through three tests is a positive indicator that these areas have not yet required intervention. It does, however, mean that the vehicle is now entering the stage of its life where age-related deterioration begins to overlap with mileage-related wear, particularly on rubber components, fluids, and electrical items. The recurring tyre advisories and the dangerous failure for exposed cords on the offside front tyre are the most significant findings in the record and should be the primary focus of a physical inspection. Tyre perishing and cracking on a 2020 vehicle is consistent with natural rubber degradation from age, UV exposure, and heat cycling, and even relatively new-looking tyres can develop sidewall fractures that compromise structural integrity. On a test drive, listen for any increase in road noise, watch for vibration through the steering wheel, and inspect all four tyres closely for hairline cracks in the sidewalls, bulges, or uneven tread wear that might indicate alignment or suspension issues. The fact that cords were exposed on the front offside tyre suggests the previous replacement may have been delayed, and a prospective purchaser should verify the date codes on all four tyres to ensure they are not approaching the end of their service life regardless of remaining tread depth. Beyond the tyre concerns, the windscreen washer defect noted at the 2025 test is a relatively minor item but worth confirming has been properly resolved, as washer system failures can sometimes indicate a faulty pump, blocked nozzles, or a leak in the reservoir or pipework. Given the vehicle's age and moderate mileage, several age-related items merit attention even though they do not appear in the MOT record. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as six-year-old factory-fitted units are often approaching the end of their reliable service life. Brake discs should be checked for corrosion lipping and the calipers for binding, particularly given that the car may have seen periods of lighter use. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil if applicable are all subject to calendar degradation and should be confirmed as recently serviced, and the auxiliary timing belt or chain service interval should be verified against SEAT's recommended schedule. A thorough inspection underneath the vehicle for any fluid leaks, corrosion on suspension arms and exhaust components, and the condition of the coil springs and anti-roll bar bushes would also be prudent for a car now entering its seventh year.