2016 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · EA16 KYB

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 SEAT Alhambra, conducted on 2026-03-19, resulted in a passing grade with a single advisory regarding the nearside rear child seat obstructing a full inspection of the adult seat belt system. This outcome follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs since 2022, with advisories appearing only in the last two years, particularly related to tyre wear and suspension components. The presence of these advisories—particularly those concerning the suspension arm bushings—suggests a stable maintenance trend, albeit with signs of wear that may warrant closer attention as the vehicle ages further. The absence of any failures or critical defects in the intervening years indicates that the vehicle has generally met roadworthiness standards, though the recurring advisories should prompt the buyer to address underlying issues to prevent potential deterioration. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 80,439 miles is consistent with its age, averaging approximately 8,044 miles per year—a rate that aligns with typical usage patterns for a ten-year-old car. This mileage level does not suggest excessive wear from high annual mileage, but it also does not indicate minimal usage either. The lack of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation in recent years suggests steady ownership, which is beneficial for tracking wear progression. However, the advisories on tyre wear—particularly the offside and nearside rear tyres approaching the legal limit with edge wear—highlight that the vehicle has been driven with some exposure to aggressive cornering or uneven loading, which can accelerate tyre degradation. Additionally, the suspension advisories, while not severe, indicate that the inner suspension arm bushings have experienced wear, which may lead to increased play or clunking noises if left unaddressed. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, suspension, and brakes, given the advisories and typical wear patterns for this vehicle’s age and mileage. Begin with the tyres, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. Verify the tread depth on all four tyres, ensuring no further wear beyond the legal minimum, and inspect for irregular patterns of wear that could indicate misalignment, poor suspension, or uneven loading. During a test drive, listen for suspension clunks or rattles, particularly around the front and rear suspension arms, as these may indicate further wear in the bushings or pins. The clunks could become more pronounced when driving over bumps or at higher speeds. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest misalignment or binding calipers, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises that could signal brake issues, such as worn brake pads or warped discs. As for broader maintenance checks, the buyer should verify the service history, particularly for fluid servicing, as the vehicle’s age and mileage suggest that time-based maintenance may be necessary. Given the advisories on suspension components, inspect the coil springs, shock absorbers, and strut mounts for signs of leakage, corrosion, or excessive sagging. The suspension clunks may also be linked to worn or broken suspension bushes, which can lead to increased road noise and reduced handling stability. Check the brake system for any signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as brake fluid can degrade over time, even without use, and should be replaced every two years or as recommended by the manufacturer. Finally, examine the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate wear in the catalytic converter or mufflers, and ensure all emissions-related components are functioning within legal limits. A thorough visual inspection of the undercarriage for rust or structural damage is also advisable, particularly around wheel arches and underbody components, to assess long-term exposure to moisture and road debris.