2017 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · DM54 LOR

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 SEAT Ibiza occurred on 2026-06-24 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were recorded at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of suspension-related issues, with the most severe failure occurring in 2024-11-15 for an excessively worn front offside suspension arm pin or bush, which is a critical structural component affecting steering stability and alignment. While subsequent MOTs have shown no major defects, the repeated advisories on near-side front suspension arm pin or bush wear—including one instance of rear bush bonding deterioration—suggest persistent wear beyond normal operational limits. These advisories, particularly when paired with the failed condition, imply that the suspension system has undergone significant stress over time, potentially leading to further degradation if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 64,733 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,193 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class, particularly if it has been used for both personal and practical purposes. However, the presence of long periods between MOTs—such as the gap between 2023-03-10 and 2024-11-15—could indicate either infrequent use or potential neglect in routine maintenance. If the vehicle has been driven less frequently, it may have experienced accelerated wear from prolonged standing, particularly in the suspension, brakes, and fluid systems, where standing corrosion and fluid degradation can occur more rapidly. Conversely, if mileage accumulation was rapid, the wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components would be more pronounced, necessitating closer inspection. Given the recent clean MOT and the recurring suspension advisories, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the offside and near-side lower arm bushings, steering linkages, and coil springs for signs of further deterioration. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or sharp turns, as these could indicate worn or failing suspension components. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the brake system for any signs of binding calipers, excessive brake dust accumulation, or a spongy pedal feel, which could indicate worn brake pads or warped discs. The offside suspension arm failure in 2024 suggests that the vehicle’s steering geometry may be compromised, so verifying alignment and wheel bearings is essential. Impending maintenance should include a full suspension inspection, replacement of worn bushings if necessary, and a check of the steering rack and tie rods for wear or leakage. For the buyer, despite the MOT passing, the vehicle’s history warrants caution, particularly regarding the suspension. The tyre advisories from 2023-03-10, including a near-side front outer tyre with a shallow cut, should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the sidewall or tread, which could lead to a blowout. The spare tyre’s tyre glue being out of date is a minor but important advisory, as it may compromise its effectiveness in an emergency. Beyond the suspension, the buyer should also verify the condition of the brake discs and pads, ensuring no corrosion or binding is present, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Given the vehicle’s age, a check of the 12V battery health is advisable, as older batteries may struggle with prolonged idling or cold starts. Finally, since the vehicle has been in use for nearly a decade, a comprehensive fluid service—including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be performed to mitigate calendar-based degradation, particularly if the vehicle has not been serviced in line with manufacturer recommendations.