2018 SEAT Leon 1.5L Petrol · DE68 ABF

The most recent MOT on 14 April 2026 was passed, the only comment being an advisory that the front brake pads are wearing thin. Earlier in the record the car suffered a series of failures in 2023 and 2024 – missing wheel fixing, a fractured rear coil spring and dangerously thin rear pads – but those items appear to have been rectified as the subsequent tests have been passes, albeit with recurring advisories about the shock absorbers and brake wear. Overall the maintenance trend is stabilising; the vehicle is now passing its annual test but still shows signs of wear that need monitoring. With 69 153 miles recorded on a 2018 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8 600 miles per year, which is within the normal UK usage envelope for a family hatchback. The mileage does not suggest any periods of excessive short‑term abuse, but the relatively modest total mileage for an eight‑year‑old car could indicate that it has spent significant time stationary, a factor that can accelerate ageing of rubber components and corrosion in the under‑carriage. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system. The front pads are already thin and the rear pads were previously below the minimum thickness, so a visual inspection of pad thickness and disc condition is essential; look for scoring, glazing or excessive rust on the discs and listen for any shudder or vibration when applying the brakes. The shock absorbers have been flagged for light oil misting on both fronts for several years, which can be an early sign of seal failure – a failing absorber will produce a hollow thump over bumps, uneven ride height or excessive body roll. Verify that the previously missing front wheel fixing and the fractured off‑side rear coil spring have been correctly replaced, and examine the surrounding suspension bushes and springs for any cracks, corrosion or play, especially when pushing the wheel up and down or checking for clunking noises during a low‑speed drive. Given the car’s age, a thorough age‑related check is advisable. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that may have resulted from long periods of storage, and confirm that tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm across the tread face. Examine the battery terminals and test the charge, as an eight‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Look under the chassis for rust or corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ask for evidence that the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant have been changed on schedule – fluid degradation can occur even with low mileage. Finally, ensure the service book shows regular maintenance stamps and that any outstanding recalls for the SEAT Leon have been addressed before committing to purchase.