2018 SEAT Arona 1.6L Diesel · NU67 VPC

The most recent MOT record from October 2025 shows a vehicle that failed due to critical suspension and tyre issues, yet passed cleanly just five days later at the same mileage. This suggests the defects were addressed promptly, but the presence of a fractured front coil spring and severely deteriorated track rod end dust covers—both front offside and nearside—indicates a worsening trend in suspension integrity. The fact that the car passed without defects in October 2024 and 2022 implies these components were previously serviceable, yet the rapid onset of failure in 2025 points to either deferred maintenance or latent wear accelerated by driving conditions. The tyre issues, while corrected, were severe enough to warrant failure twice in quick succession, hinting at either aggressive driving or neglect of basic upkeep. The mileage accumulation of roughly 6,625 miles per year aligns with typical usage for an eight-year-old vehicle, though the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests (around 5,900 miles in 12 months) suggests consistent but not excessive driving. The absence of defects in the 2024 and 2022 tests contrasts sharply with the 2025 failure, reinforcing that the suspension and tyre problems emerged suddenly rather than as a gradual decline. This pattern raises questions about whether the vehicle was stored or underused before the 2025 issues surfaced, potentially masking wear until heavier loads or rougher roads exposed the faults. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front suspension, focusing on the coil springs and track rod end ball joints for any signs of fatigue, corrosion, or oil leakage. The fractured coil spring in 2025 is a serious red flag—if not replaced, it could lead to uneven tyre wear, handling instability, or even a sudden failure at speed. The track rod end dust covers, once compromised, allow dirt ingress, accelerating joint wear; checking for play or grinding noises under steering is essential. Brake components, while only advisory in 2023, should also be scrutinised for uneven wear or corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been driven since then. Tyre condition remains a concern, given the edge wear and cracking noted—any remaining tyres should be examined for hidden damage or uneven tread depth. Finally, the lack of structural defects in the MOT history is positive, but the sudden onset of suspension failures demands caution. If the coil spring and track rod ends were not fully addressed beyond the minimum legal repair, the vehicle may still harbour underlying issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, with a test drive to assess handling and brake performance, is strongly advised before committing to a purchase.