2019 Alpine A110 S Auto 1.8L Petrol · J3 XEB

The vehicle's recent MOT history indicates a developing pattern of suspension and tyre wear issues, following a previous structural component failure. The most recent MOT in May 2026 resulted in a pass but highlighted several significant advisories: a light misting of oil on the nearside front shock absorber and all four front tyres noted as worn close to the legal limit, with specific mention of inner edge wear on both front inner tyres. This follows a failure in November 2024 for a fractured offside rear coil spring, which was promptly rectified and passed on re-test the same day. While the intervening tests were clean, the latest inspection reveals a cluster of concerns that warrant attention. With a recorded mileage of 30,395 miles over approximately seven years, the vehicle has averaged around 4,342 miles annually. This represents a relatively low usage rate for its age, suggesting that it may have experienced periods of lighter use. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing without significant gaps, indicating regular, albeit modest, road use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which can sometimes lead to different types of component degradation. Given the recent advisories, a thorough inspection of the front suspension system is essential. The light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber indicates the early stages of a fluid leak, which can compromise the shock's damping performance over time. During a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking, clunking, or excessive bounce from the front end, particularly when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as these could signify further wear in the shock absorber or associated suspension bushes. The extensive wear on all front tyres, especially the noted inner edge wear on both front inner tyres, strongly suggests that the vehicle's wheel alignment is incorrect or that other front suspension components are worn, affecting the geometry. It is crucial to visually inspect all tyres for remaining tread depth across their full width and for any uneven wear patterns. The previous failure for a fractured offside rear coil spring, although rectified, means the rear suspension should also be scrutinised for any signs of previous repair work or mismatched components. Listen for any unusual noises from the rear suspension during the test drive. A comprehensive professional inspection, with a particular focus on the entire suspension system, wheel bearings, and a full four-wheel alignment check, is highly recommended to assess the current condition and identify any underlying causes for the observed tyre wear and suspension misting.