2009 SEAT Ibiza 1.4L Petrol · FE09 OTL

The vehicle currently presents a concerning roadworthiness state with a worsening trend in structural integrity and mechanical neglect. While it passed its most recent test in July 2025 at 95,146 miles, this success followed a failure just two weeks prior involving multiple critical defects. The presence of a corroded rear axle and corroded exhaust box indicates that structural oxidation is actively compromising the chassis. The recurring mention of an oil leak and exhaust blow suggests that the owner is only addressing faults to meet legal requirements rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 95,146 miles represents an average of approximately 5,600 miles per year. This low annual usage often leads to vehicles sitting for extended periods, which accelerates degradation of rubber components and promotes corrosion on metal surfaces. Between January 2024 and July 2025, the car covered only 5,039 miles, yet it suffered from significant mechanical failures including worn front brake discs and failing wipers. This discrepancy suggests that the low mileage has not protected the vehicle from the effects of age and poor-term care. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underside and suspension mounting points to assess the extent of the reported axle corrosion. The tester previously flagged corrosion on the frame, arms, and springs in 2024, which progressed to an axle failure by 2025. The scrubbing on the nearside front tyre and inner edge wear on the offside tyre indicate significant alignment issues or worn suspension bushes that require immediate attention. Furthermore, the previous supplementary restraint system warning lamp fault in July 2025 must be verified as resolved to ensure the airbag system is functional, as this represents a major safety risk.