2011 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Diesel · KU11 FVV

The most recent DVSA test on 2 April 2026 recorded a Pass, which is positive, however a review of the preceding history indicates a clear worsening trend in the vehicle's mechanical condition. The 2026 pass was achieved only days after a Fail on 27 March 2026, where two major defects were identified, namely a fractured offside front coil spring and a perished offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover, both of which represent significant safety-related suspension failures. Furthermore, the 2026 advisories for both front tyres being worn to the legal limit and a minor exhaust gas leak were carried straight over from the earlier failed test, suggesting that the necessary remedial work had not been completed prior to the retest. The 2025 test also flagged a rear brake performance advisory, and the 2024 test recorded deterioration of the same offside front anti-roll bar dust cover now flagged as a major failure, demonstrating a progressive rather than isolated decline. With 129,748 miles recorded over approximately 15 years, the Ibiza has covered around 8,650 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and indicates consistent use rather than extended periods of standing. While the mileage profile is healthy in the sense that components have not been left to deteriorate through inactivity, a higher-than-average annual mileage will naturally accelerate wear on the typical Ibiza weak points, including the suspension and braking systems as evidenced by the recent MOT results. There are no significant gaps in the test history, meaning the deterioration seen is genuine wear rather than the result of long unobserved storage, but the pattern suggests the vehicle is now entering a phase where more intensive maintenance is required. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns should be a thorough inspection of the front suspension, particularly the offside coil spring and anti-roll bar linkage, as these components have now failed or shown accelerated wear. On a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking noises from the front suspension over bumps, pay attention to any wandering or instability through corners which would indicate weakened anti-roll bar function, and visually inspect the springs for any signs of cracking or sagging. The fact that the offside front anti-roll bar dust cover deteriorated from a minor advisory in 2024 to a major failure in 2026 suggests the joint itself may now be contaminated and prematurely worn, and any play or free movement in the linkage when the wheel is rocked by hand should be treated as grounds for renegotiation or immediate replacement. In addition to the suspension, the recent advisories for both front tyres worn to the legal limit and the exhaust leak must be addressed before purchase, with budget allowed for at least a new pair of front tyres and likely an exhaust repair or front section replacement. Given the rear brake adjustment advisory from 2025, the handbrake mechanism and rear drum or disc condition should be inspected, as the system was noted as only just meeting requirements and may now require shoes, pads, or a caliper overhaul. As a fifteen year old vehicle, age-related items warrant careful checks regardless of the MOT record, including the condition of the 12 volt battery, brake fluid age and moisture content, coolant condition and any evidence of perished hoses, the underside for corrosion particularly around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, and the timing belt or chain service interval as this is the kind of calendar-based maintenance that does not show on an MOT but is critical on a vehicle of this age. The offside front mirror damage noted in 2025 is a minor cosmetic item, but confirming it has not been replaced and that the glass remains secure would be prudent.