2016 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · EY66 YNF

The most recent MOT test results, conducted on 2026-01-06, show the vehicle passed with several persistent advisories, indicating a stable but not entirely satisfactory maintenance record. While the car has avoided major failures in the last two years, the repeated advisories—particularly around tyre wear, suspension components, and an oil leak—suggest ongoing wear patterns that require careful attention. The fact that the same issues recurred in the same test indicates either a lack of timely servicing or inherent component degradation that has not yet reached critical levels, though the trend does not suggest a marked improvement from prior failures. The vehicle’s history of passing in 2023 and 2025, followed by repeated advisories, implies that while the car remains roadworthy, it is not yet at the point of imminent failure but is clearly subject to wear that demands proactive intervention. The recorded mileage of 93,181 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,318 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this class. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear beyond what is typical for its age, but it does contribute to the observed advisories, particularly in the suspension and tyre systems. A mileage of this magnitude often correlates with higher stress on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushings, and tyres, which aligns with the repeated advisories on front tyre wear and offside suspension arm components. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage figures over the past few years suggests that the vehicle may have been driven at a steady pace without prolonged periods of high usage or idling, which could mitigate some wear risks. Given the recurring advisories on tyre wear and suspension components, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front tyres, focusing on the tread depth and sidewall condition. Tyres worn close to the legal limit on the edges can indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and the buyer should check for uneven wear patterns that may suggest camber or toe problems. During a test drive, listen for any clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps, as this could signal worn suspension bushes or arm pins. Additionally, inspect the front suspension for excessive play or binding, which may be exacerbated by the reported offside arm wear. The oil leak advisory warrants attention to the engine bay for any visible fluid pooling, and the buyer should ensure the oil level is topped up and check for any signs of contamination or burning smells, which could indicate further internal engine wear. For the registration plate deterioration advisory, while it does not affect roadworthiness, it is worth noting that a poorly maintained registration plate could become a legal issue if it becomes unreadable. The buyer should also address the front headlamp aim issue, as improperly aimed headlamps can impair visibility and are a potential safety concern. Beyond the MOT advisories, the buyer should consider a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s standing condition, particularly focusing on the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, which can occur when the vehicle stands for extended periods. Check the brake discs for uneven wear or corrosion, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, as this could indicate worn brake pads or warped discs. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should verify the service history for fluid changes, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations. Finally, a quick check of the 12V battery health and the condition of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing from age is advisable, as these issues can become critical without proper maintenance.