2018 SEAT Arona 1.0L Petrol · NA68 ACY

The most recent MOT test on 11 September 2025 at 61,245 miles passed without any defects, marking a clean outcome after two consecutive tests in early 2025 that revealed multiple advisories. However, the trend prior to this was concerning: the December 2024 test failed due to a deteriorated track rod end ball joint dust cover—a critical suspension component—and repeated issues with front brake discs, tyres, and rear brake fluctuations. These were not isolated incidents; the January 2024 test already flagged worn, pitted front brake discs, while the January 2023 entry showed the same problem affecting both front discs. The fact that these advisories persisted for over a year suggests either deferred repairs or basic neglect, particularly around braking and suspension integrity. The most recent pass does not erase the pattern of recurring faults, which should prompt a closer inspection of the underlying systems. The vehicle’s mileage accumulation—61,245 miles over eight years—averages around 7,656 miles annually, which is typical for its age. However, the gaps between tests reveal inconsistencies in maintenance. The December 2024 failure occurred just two months after the January 2024 pass, with identical mileage recorded (59,412), indicating either a clerical error or no significant mileage covered in that period. More notably, the jump from 48,684 miles in January 2024 to 59,412 by December suggests a rapid increase of over 10,000 miles in under a year—a period where critical advisories went unresolved. This spike, combined with the recurring faults, implies either aggressive driving conditions or a lack of proactive servicing. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the front brake system, particularly the discs and calipers, given the persistent pitting, corrosion, and lipping noted across multiple tests. The track rod end ball joint dust cover failure in December 2024 is a serious concern—if the joint itself is worn, this could lead to alignment issues or even suspension collapse. The rear suspension also warrants attention: light oil misting on the offside shock absorber in two consecutive tests signals potential internal wear, while fluctuating rear brakes could indicate binding calipers or worn brake hardware. Finally, the undertray modifications obscuring testable items raise questions about structural corrosion or modifications that may have compromised safety-critical components. The vehicle’s clean MOT in September 2025 is encouraging, but the history of unresolved advisories—especially around brakes, suspension, and tyre condition—demands thorough scrutiny before purchase. Without evidence of recent repairs addressing the track rod joint, brake discs, or rear brake fluctuations, this car presents a higher-than-average risk of hidden mechanical degradation. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is essential to confirm whether the issues have been professionally rectified.