2018 SEAT Leon 1.6L Diesel · FP68 XOW

The most recent MOT tests on this 2018 SEAT León, conducted just 11 months ago on 2025-08-02, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects. The vehicle passed one test and failed the subsequent one at identical mileages, suggesting either a technical error in the first pass or a critical component just outside tolerances at the time of the second test. The lack of advisories or defects in any of the five recorded tests implies no systematic neglect, but the repeated failure at the same mileage—without explanation—warries scrutiny of components prone to marginal wear, such as brake calipers, suspension linkages, or exhaust systems. The absence of advisories in prior tests also means no prior owner addressed known issues before the test window, which is unusual for a vehicle with this mileage. The recorded mileage of 101,066 miles over eight years equates to an average of 12,633 miles annually, which is significantly higher than the UK average for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either intensive use or prolonged periods of non-operation followed by rapid accumulation. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 15,171 miles in just under a year, and another 23,240 miles between 2024 and 2025, indicating no extended periods of inactivity. Such mileage accumulation accelerates wear on high-friction parts like brake pads, discs, and suspension bushes, as well as drivetrain components such as timing belts or constant velocity joints. The lack of advisories in prior tests suggests these components may have been replaced or repaired privately, but without documentation, their condition cannot be confirmed. Given the repeated failure at the same mileage, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, which are often the last to fail but can cause binding or uneven wear. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and track rods—should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, as these components are frequently overlooked until they fail. The exhaust system, especially at the rear, should be checked for leaks or rust-through, particularly if the vehicle has been driven in wet or salted conditions. Finally, the structural integrity of the chassis and wheel arches should be assessed for corrosion, as this is a common issue in vehicles of this age and mileage, especially if the car has spent time near the coast or in urban areas with heavy de-icing salt use.