2018 SEAT Arona 1.0L Petrol · MT68 FFB

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 SEAT Arona, conducted just over a week ago, resulted in a failure due to a serious fluid leak from the offside front shock absorber, which is a critical structural failure under DVSA standards. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, where it consistently passed without defects until this latest test. The failure indicates a persistent and unresolved issue with the offside front shock absorber, which has not been addressed prior to the current inspection, suggesting either inadequate maintenance or a recurring mechanical problem that has not been rectified. While the earlier advisory on thin front brake pads and tyre perishing was present, the current failure underscores a more severe mechanical concern that must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage to suspension components and potential road safety risks. The recorded mileage of 51,031 miles for a vehicle of this age—approximately 6,379 miles per year—falls within the expected range for a car of its class, reflecting typical usage patterns rather than either light or heavy wear. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps over the past few years suggests the vehicle has been in regular service, which could accelerate wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components. The consistent annual mileage accumulation means that consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and fluid systems are likely approaching or exceeding their service life, particularly given the advisories from previous MOTs. While 51,031 miles is not excessively high for a 2018 model, the presence of recurring wear advisories and the recent failure of the offside front shock absorber indicate that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards. Given the recent MOT failure and the history of advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection of the offside front shock absorber system. The fluid leak suggests severe internal damage, which may have compromised the shock absorber’s structural integrity, leading to potential instability or uneven ride quality. During a test drive, listen for abnormal clunking or bouncing noises from the offside front suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as these could indicate further suspension component failure. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may reveal misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the failing shock absorber. Immediate replacement of the offside front shock absorber is strongly recommended to restore roadworthiness and prevent further mechanical degradation. Beyond the shock absorber, inspect the front brake system for signs of excessive pad wear, brake disc corrosion, or binding calipers, as the previous advisories suggest ongoing wear that could lead to reduced braking performance if not addressed promptly. For the tyres, which have received previous advisories regarding cracking or perishing, conduct a visual inspection of the sidewall for signs of dry rot or delamination, particularly on the nearside front and rear tyres. Tyres with significant sidewall damage can fail catastrophically, especially under high loads or during sudden manoeuvres. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories, consider replacing the tyres if the sidewall damage is extensive, as this is a critical safety concern that should not be overlooked. Furthermore, check the brake discs for signs of corrosion, warping, or uneven thickness, as these can affect braking efficiency and safety. If the discs are corroded or bound, they may require cleaning or replacement to ensure consistent braking performance. Finally, verify that all fluids—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as fluid ageing can compromise system performance. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive service check, including a 12V battery health assessment and a check for standing corrosion on suspension components and the exhaust system, is also advisable to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition.