2016 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · NA16 VOC

The vehicle achieved an MOT pass on 6 May 2026, though it is important to recognise that this pass came only five days after a prior failure on 1 May 2026. Two advisories were recorded at the most recent test: a note that under body covers are fitted, which can obscure structural and corrosion inspection of the chassis and floor pan, and a TPMS malfunction indicator lamp being illuminated, suggesting a faulty sensor, depleted sensor battery, or an underlying tyre pressure issue that requires diagnostic investigation. The May 2026 failure included a dangerous defect for an offside front tyre with tread depth below the legal 1.6mm requirement, a major defect for a split offside front outer CV boot on the drive shaft, and a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge. The presence of two CV boot failures within roughly three years, in 2023 and again in 2026, both on the offside front, points toward a recurring mechanical vulnerability on that corner of the vehicle, which is a notable concern for any prospective buyer. The recorded mileage of 74,764 miles over a ten-year registration period equates to an average annual mileage of approximately 7,476 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record, suggesting consistent use, and no signs of rapid mileage accumulation between tests. However, the combination of relatively modest annual mileage and a ten-year service life means that calendar-based degradation of components such as rubber bushes, brake hydraulic fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery should be considered alongside the odometer reading. Even at moderate mileages, age-related perishing of rubber components and oxidation of brake discs from periods of standing remain legitimate concerns that warrant physical inspection. Regarding the CV boot failures recorded in both 2023 and 2026, this is a recurring mechanical fault that warrants close scrutiny. A split CV boot allows grease to escape and permits the ingress of dirt and moisture, accelerating deterioration of the constant velocity joint itself. If left unaddressed, this can lead to drivetrain vibration, knocking on full lock, and ultimately joint failure requiring replacement of the entire drive shaft. On a test drive, listen for clicking or popping noises from the offside front wheel area during tight turns, and check for grease contamination around the inner and outer CV joints beneath the vehicle. The dangerous tyre tread depth failure and the advisory regarding nearside front tyre wear close to the legal limit on its edge indicate that the front axle geometry, suspension components, or wheel alignment should be inspected, as uneven or rapid edge wear typically points toward worn suspension bushes, top mounts, droplinks, or tracking irregularities. Given the vehicle's age and the advisories regarding under body covers being in place, a physical inspection on a ramp is strongly recommended to verify structural integrity, floor pan condition, and corrosion status, particularly around wheel arches, suspension mounting points, and brake line runs, as the fitted covers prevent a thorough visual MOT assessment of these areas. The TPMS light should be diagnosed to establish whether the issue lies with a faulty sensor or simply requires tyre pressure correction, and the front tyres should be replaced as a priority regardless of any remaining tread, given the recorded dangerous failure. Additionally, given the ten-year age of the vehicle, the 12V battery should be load-tested, the brake fluid should be checked for moisture content and replaced if its age cannot be verified, and the coolant should be assessed for condition and replacement history. The brake discs should be examined for lipping, corrosion pitting, and binding calipers, particularly given the modest annual mileage which increases the likelihood of standing-related corrosion. Verifying a complete service history with documented cambelt or timing chain replacement intervals specific to the Ibiza engine variant is also essential, as neglect of this item can result in catastrophic engine damage.