2023 SEAT Ateca Xperience Ecotsi 1.5L Petrol · NJ23 KVB

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 March 2026, was passed with no recorded defects or advisories. As this is the first statutory test for a three‑year‑old vehicle, the lack of any failures indicates that the car has been maintained to a satisfactory standard to date, and there are no emerging reliability concerns evident from the MOT data. At 6 942 miles the Ateca has averaged just over 2 300 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical UK usage of around 8‑10 000 miles annually. Such low annual mileage often points to a vehicle that has spent extended periods idle or has been used only for short, infrequent journeys. While reduced wear on consumables is a benefit, prolonged standing can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, battery cells, and fluid integrity, and may mask latent issues that only surface when the car is driven more regularly. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the condition of the tyres. Even with modest tread wear, sidewalls can develop cracking or hardening from age, especially if the vehicle has been stored for long periods. Verify that the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm across the width and look for any uneven wear patterns that could hint at misaligned suspension or incorrect tyre pressures. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulfation or reduced cranking power; a voltage reading above 12.6 V at rest and a healthy load test are advisable, as batteries can lose capacity after a few years even without heavy use. Further checks should include a visual and tactile inspection of the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any dry‑rot, cracking or excessive play, as rubber can deteriorate with time regardless of mileage. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust or glazing and ensure the calipers move freely without binding; any pulsation or shudder under moderate braking would merit a deeper examination. Finally, confirm that the service book shows timely oil, coolant and brake‑fluid changes in line with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, and look for any recorded maintenance on the timing chain or DSG gearbox, as these items are driven more by time than by distance in a low‑mileage vehicle. A thorough test drive listening for clunks, vibrations or abnormal engine behaviour will help reveal any hidden faults before committing to purchase.