2019 SEAT Leon 1.5L Petrol · DG19 CDY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 26 February 2026, maintaining a consistent record of passes without any major failures. However, the maintenance trend indicates a gradual progression of wear in specific areas, particularly regarding the rear suspension and tyre condition. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, the recurring advisories suggest that certain components are approaching the end of their effective service life. The persistence of shock absorber advisories from 2022 through to 2026 indicates a long-term, slow-developing issue rather than a sudden fault, which is characteristic of gradual seal degradation. With a recorded mileage of 32,806 over approximately seven years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 4,687 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the car has been used for short journeys or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can present specific risks such as component perishing and fluid degradation. The low annual usage profile aligns with the documented tyre issues, as rubber compounds can degrade and crack due to age and UV exposure even when tread depth remains sufficient. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the repeated advisory for light oil misting on both the nearside and offside rear shock absorbers. Although currently classified as a minor advisory, this indicates that the internal seals are beginning to fail. You should monitor this closely during a test drive by listening for any rhythmic knocking or thumping sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate the dampers have lost their ability to control spring oscillation. Furthermore, the history of tyre cracking and perishing suggests that the rubber is aging prematurely. During your inspection, check the sidewalls of all four tyres for any fine cracks or signs of bulging, and ensure that the tyres are not only legally compliant in terms of tread depth but also relatively recent in manufacture to avoid sudden failure from age-related brittleness. Given the low mileage and potential for long periods of standing, you should also conduct a thorough check of the vehicle's secondary systems. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the car is not driven regularly, and check for any signs of binding calipers that might cause uneven braking or overheating. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed based on the calendar year rather than just mileage, as fluids can become acidic or lose their protective properties over time regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the 12V battery health, as low-usage vehicles are frequently prone to discharge and premature battery failure.