2009 SEAT Ibiza 1.4L Petrol · FD09 JDU

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 SEAT Ibiza occurred on 2025-11-22, where it passed with a single advisory—underbody corrosion. While this latest result is positive, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement. The 2022-10-06 failure stands out as particularly critical, with major defects on both front brake pads reaching the wear indicator, alongside a nearside front tyre failing the tread depth test. The 2021-10-01 and 2023-10-04 tests were clean or only flagged minor exhaust leaks and parking brake inefficiencies, but the 2024-11-04 failure highlighted a dangerous brake pipe leak in an air braking system, which would have necessitated immediate repair. These recurring advisories and failures suggest that while the vehicle may have passed recent tests, underlying wear and potential mechanical fatigue are present, particularly in the braking system and suspension components. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 144,019 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,472 miles per year, which is consistent with its age and typical owner behaviour. Given its 17-year age, this is not unusually high—many owners with lower mileage have parked the vehicle for extended periods, leading to standing corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT records suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The front brake pads reaching the wear indicator in 2022 and the persistent exhaust leaks indicate that the braking system and exhaust manifold may be nearing critical thresholds, while the air braking pipe failure underlines the importance of addressing fluid integrity and component stress over time. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent inspection should focus on the braking system, given the history of worn pads, potential pipe leaks, and parking brake inefficiency. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or harsh feel, or excessive vibration, which may indicate binding calipers, warped discs, or hydraulic system issues. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition—low or contaminated fluid can exacerbate brake failure risks. The exhaust leaks suggest a need for a thorough inspection of the manifold, catalytic converter, and exhaust hoses, as minor leaks can escalate into dangerous emissions or structural failures. Check for signs of corrosion around the underbody, particularly beneath the rear wheels and under the bonnet, where the 2024 and 2025 advisories were noted, as rust can compromise structural integrity and lead to costly repairs. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a comprehensive physical examination. Given its 17 years and 144,019 miles, the tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity and handling. Verify the 12V battery health, as older vehicles often struggle with cold-start reliability or parasitic drain issues. Inspect the suspension for excessive play in the ball joints, which were flagged in 2021, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, as worn suspension bushes or coil springs can lead to uneven ride quality and premature wear. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, check the service book for any missing or outdated fluid servicing records—specifically, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. If no service history exists, consider a professional fluid flush and inspection of the drivetrain components, as calendar-based servicing is critical for longevity in this age group.