2017 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · FN17 UGR

The defining mechanical narrative of this 2017 SEAT Ibiza centres on a persistent and recurring brake disc wear pattern that has been flagged across four consecutive test cycles. The most recent assessment on 17 August 2026 recorded a clean pass with no defects, which is encouraging on the surface, yet the broader history reveals that brake discs have been an advisories-only concern at every test since 2022. In that earlier test, both rear discs were noted as worn, pitted, or scored, followed by a similar front disc advisory in June 2023. By August 2025, the pattern had progressed to inner-face wear on both the front and rear discs simultaneously, suggesting that the braking system has been operating at or near its service threshold for several years without intervention. While none of these entries crossed the threshold for a failure, the consistency of the advisories indicates that the discs have likely reached a point where replacement should be anticipated during the next ownership cycle. Against an age of approximately nine years, the recorded 83,031 miles equates to an annual accumulation of around 9,226 miles, which sits comfortably within the expected range for a vehicle of this vintage and class. The testing history itself shows no multi-year gaps, with annual or biennial MOTs recorded continuously from 2022 through 2026, indicating the car has remained in regular use and on the road throughout its recent life. Mileage progression between tests appears broadly consistent with this average, with no dramatic spikes that would suggest heavy commercial use or a long-distance commuter pattern. This kind of moderate, steady usage typically yields even wear across suspension and drivetrain components rather than the acute stress seen in high-mileage motors, though consumables such as brake friction material and tyres will still require proportionate attention at this odometer reading. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority on inspection should be a thorough assessment of the braking system, given the documented disc wear history. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, rumbling, or pulsation through the brake pedal, as these would indicate that the worn discs flagged in 2025 have now reached the minimum thickness and require replacement. The steering wheel should remain stable under firm braking without vibration, and the pedal should feel firm and progressive rather than spongy. Given the inner-face wear noted on the 2025 advisories, caliper slide pins or guide mechanisms may also be sticking, which can be checked by lifting the car and verifying that each caliper moves freely without binding. Additionally, the nearside front tyre was flagged in 2023 for slight damage and perishing, so a close visual inspection of the sidewalls for cracking or bulges is warranted, particularly on any tyre that has been in service for an extended period. Beyond the braking system, attention should turn to the suspension and undercarriage, which are common wear points on a Ibiza of this age and mileage. On the test drive, listen for clonks, knocks, or creaks from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as these can indicate worn suspension bushes, drop links, or anti-roll bar mountings. Steering should remain precise and self-centring without excess play at the wheel, and the car should track straight on a flat road without pulling to either side, which would suggest geometry issues or uneven brake drag. Given the car's urban-to-mixed-use mileage profile, it would also be prudent to inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, and to check the engine bay for any oil seepage from the valve cover gasket or sump, as these are typical wear items that develop progressively with mileage. A final pre-purchase measure would be to verify the current brake disc thickness with a vernier gauge or by having a garage measure them directly, as the 2025 advisories suggest the discs may be approaching the end of their serviceable life within the next 12 to 24 months.