2013 SEAT Leon 1.6L Diesel · FH13 FMK

The 2013 SEAT Leon passed its most recent MOT on 24 February 2026 at 110,399 miles, but the maintenance trend is not improving. The record shows a persistent and worsening suspension issue. A light oil misting on the front shock absorbers has appeared in every single test since at least March 2022, and by the February 2026 test, the offside rear shock absorber was also flagged with the same fault. This indicates the dampers are degrading progressively rather than being replaced. The most recent test also flagged cracking or perishing on both the nearside front and offside rear tyres, suggesting basic rubber component upkeep has been overlooked. The mileage accumulation is consistent and unremarkable for a 13-year-old vehicle. The car covered roughly 8,500 miles per year, moving from 89,149 miles in March 2022 to 110,399 miles in February 2026. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record. The MOT history itself is sparse, with only five tests recorded over four years, which is below the annual average expected for a vehicle of this age. This raises the possibility of long periods off-road or missed tests, though the steady mileage climb suggests regular use. A buyer should treat the shock absorbers as a near-certain replacement item. The recurring oil misting across all four corners points to worn seals and compromised damping, which will affect ride quality, braking distances, and tyre wear. The tyre condition advisories in 2025 and 2026, covering both perishing and worn edges, suggest the suspension wear is already causing uneven contact patches. Inspect the inner sidewalls and tread faces closely, and check for any play or knocking from the suspension bushes and drop links. The 2022 test flagged worn and pitted brake discs on all four wheels, yet this did not reappear in later records. This could mean the discs and pads were replaced, or the wear has not yet reached the failure threshold again. A buyer should verify the current thickness of the discs and the condition of the pads, paying attention to any lipping or scoring. Given the age and mileage, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion on suspension mounting points, subframes, and brake lines is advisable before purchase.