2015 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · FN15 MBV

The most recent MOT inspection on 25 September 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is displaying a clear trend of accumulating wear-related advisories that suggest a period of deferred maintenance or the natural progression of component degradation. While the vehicle has avoided outright failures since the structural tyre issue in 2023, the number and nature of the advisories have increased in the latest test. The transition from suspension bush advisories in previous years to current advisories regarding leaking shock absorbers and thinning brake components indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where several major consumable systems will require simultaneous attention to maintain roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 62,702 over approximately eleven years, this SEAT Ibiza has averaged roughly 5,700 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the car has been used primarily for short, local trips or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can lead to specific issues such as carbon buildup in the engine, battery degradation, and the perishing of rubber components like suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls due to age rather than tread wear. The history confirms this, with multiple advisories regarding tyre condition and suspension bushings appearing over several years. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system and suspension during a test drive. The latest report highlights thinning brake pads and pitted or scored discs on the front, alongside a history of worn rear discs. You should listen for any grinding noises during deceleration or a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, which would indicate significant disc warping or uneven wear. Furthermore, the advisory regarding light oil misting on both front shock absorbers is a precursor to total seal failure. On the road, you should monitor the vehicle for any excessive bouncing, poor damping over bumps, or audible clunking from the front end, which would suggest the dampers or suspension arm bushes have deteriorated beyond the current advisory stage. Given the low annual mileage, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's age-related consumables. Examine the tyres closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber can degrade even if tread depth remains high. Check the underside of the vehicle for signs of surface corrosion on the exhaust and brake lines, which can occur when a car is not driven frequently enough to keep components clear of moisture. It is also advisable to verify the service history for evidence of calendar-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, which are critical for low-mileage vehicles where fluid degradation occurs due to time rather than distance. Finally, ensure the 12V battery has been tested, as infrequent usage often leads to reduced capacity and unexpected starting issues.