2016 SEAT Leon 2.0L Diesel · ND66 EFF

The defining mechanical story of this SEAT Leon centres on a clear pattern of front and rear suspension deterioration, together with at least one documented drive shaft boot failure. The most recent test on 28 July 2026 was a clean pass with no advisories, and the 2025 test was similarly unblemished, so the headline roadworthiness position is currently favourable. However, looking further back, the vehicle has a history of significant suspension leaks. In September 2023 the nearside front shock absorber was failed for a serious fluid leak, and the rear pair were first flagged as merely misting with oil. By July 2024 the rear shocks had deteriorated to the point of serious leakage, and were failed alongside a split nearside front CV boot. That sequence shows a progressive loss of damping fluid and seal integrity over a relatively short period, even though the most recent test suggests the affected components have since been replaced or rectified. At 116,997 miles on a 2016 car, the Leon has covered roughly 11,700 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would imply long periods off the road, and the testing intervals remain consistent at roughly twelve months apart. The mileage band is moderate rather than extreme, but the wear pattern recorded in the suspension and drivetrain suggests that components have been worked through their expected service life. Continued annual use at this rate means consumable items such as bushes, shock absorbers, and CV joints will remain under regular stress. A prospective buyer should focus the inspection on the areas that have historically caused concern. With the rear shock absorbers having leaked seriously and then apparently being resolved, it is worth checking for any residual staining on the rear strut bodies or spring seats, and listening for clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate the dampers are no longer controlling wheel movement effectively. Even though the 2026 test recorded no advisories, dampers that have previously failed can suffer internal valving wear that is not externally visible. On the front end, the 2022 test recorded worn rear bushes on both lower suspension arms, and although these were not yet resulting in excessive movement, a buyer should jack the front wheels off the ground and check for vertical play in the lower arms, and listen for knocking or rattling from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or potholes. Tyre wear should be examined for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, which can indicate geometry issues linked to worn suspension linkage. The drivetrain also warrants specific attention given the recorded CV boot failure in 2024. On a test drive, listen for any clicking or knocking from the front wheels when turning at full lock, both in forward and reverse, which would suggest a deteriorated CV joint. Inspect the rubber boots on both front driveshafts for any fresh splits, grease contamination, or signs of a recent replacement. Given the mileage, it is also prudent to check for any seepage from the engine sump, cam cover, and turbo oil lines if fitted, and to confirm that the clutch and gearbox operate smoothly without judder or excessive noise. Finally, request evidence of the work carried out to rectify the 2024 suspension and CV joint failures, as this provides reassurance that the components were replaced rather than temporarily sealed, and clarifies what level of mechanical refresh the car has received in advance of any purchase.