2017 SEAT Leon 2.0L Petrol · FP67 DMX

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 SEAT León was conducted on 2025-10-22 and resulted in a passing outcome, with no defects recorded. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories and a single dangerous failure, indicating a need for cautious consideration. The vehicle’s tyre condition has been a consistent concern, with multiple advisories noting wear close to legal limits and structural damage, including a nearside rear tyre tear that caused a dangerous failure. While the latest test passed, the persistent tyre issues suggest either inadequate maintenance or underlying wear patterns that may accelerate further if not addressed promptly. The presence of shock absorber advisories from 2020 also highlights potential long-term fatigue in the suspension system, which could lead to further mechanical degradation if not serviced. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 103,627 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,514 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old car driven in the UK. This level of mileage is consistent with moderate to heavy usage, particularly if the vehicle has been in regular service rather than standing idle for extended periods. However, the gap between the 2020 MOT and the 2021 test—nearly a year without an MOT—could imply either a period of low usage or potential issues that were not flagged until the vehicle was driven again. For a car of this age and mileage, the suspension and tyre wear are particularly sensitive areas, as both systems accumulate fatigue over time, especially when subjected to frequent or aggressive driving conditions. Given the tyre history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of all four tyres, focusing on the nearside rear tyre for signs of further separation or delamination beyond the recorded tear. Look for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, poor wheel bearing condition, or suspension issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear wheels, such as clunking or grinding, which could signal bearing failure or loose suspension components. The offside front and rear tyre advisories suggest monitoring for additional wear or damage, particularly if the vehicle has been driven at higher speeds or over rough terrain. Immediate replacement of the nearside rear tyre is strongly advised, as the tear represents a critical structural failure that compromises tyre integrity and road safety. For the suspension system, the DVSA advisories on the front shock absorbers from 2020 indicate potential oil leakage or damping failure, which can lead to excessive body movement, poor ride quality, and premature wear on other components. On inspection, check for fluid leaks around the shock absorber mounts and test for excessive play or uneven compression when the vehicle is in a suspended position. Listen for a lack of damping during cornering or over bumps, which may manifest as a "bouncing" feel or excessive noise from the suspension. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a full suspension service—including the replacement of worn suspension bushes, coil springs, and potentially the struts—should be considered within the next 12 to 18 months. Additionally, the buyer should verify the condition of the brake system, particularly the rear discs and calipers, as the nearside rear tyre failure may have been exacerbated by brake-related issues such as binding calipers or corrosion on the discs. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as well as the brake pedal feel, for signs of sponginess or excessive travel, which could indicate fluid degradation or hydraulic failure. Lastly, with the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, and the engine oil and coolant should be checked for signs of contamination or degradation, especially if the car has been left standing for prolonged periods.