2017 SEAT Leon 1.6L Diesel · FE67 UMS

The most recent MOT tests reveal a vehicle with a largely stable roadworthiness record, though the February 2026 retest—just five months ago—demonstrates a critical oversight in headlamp alignment. The February 2026 failure on headlamp aim (4.1.2 (a)) indicates a temporary lapse in basic maintenance, yet the absence of defects in the prior four tests suggests this was an isolated issue rather than a recurring mechanical trend. The February 2025 and January 2024 tests both passed without advisories, reinforcing that structural or suspension concerns have not been flagged. However, the retest failure underscores the need for immediate verification of headlamp adjustment and potential wear to bulb housings or mounting points, as misalignment can also stem from suspension sag or frame distortion. The mileage progression of 92,894 miles at the latest test reflects a consistent annual average of approximately 10,300 miles, which aligns with typical usage patterns for a vehicle of this age. There are no abrupt spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity between tests, though the gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests—spanning 11 months—could imply either seasonal ownership or a period of lower usage. The most notable interval is between the 2025 and 2026 tests, where the vehicle accumulated 17,041 miles in just 11 months, suggesting active use. This rate of wear may necessitate closer inspection of high-mileage components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake caliper guides, as these are more likely to degrade under accelerated usage. Given the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle, to confirm there is no binding or excessive play in the calipers or wheel bearings—though these were not explicitly flagged in prior tests. The headlamp failure warrants immediate checking of the alignment and condition of the mounting brackets, as persistent misalignment could indicate underlying suspension wear or frame corrosion. Additionally, the absence of advisories on brake discs or pads in recent tests does not preclude uneven wear, so a visual inspection of the rotors for scoring or thickness variation is advisable. Finally, the vehicle’s age and mileage suggest that the underbody should be scrutinised for signs of corrosion, especially around the sills, subframe, and exhaust system, as these areas are critical for structural integrity and emissions compliance.