2018 SEAT Leon 1.4L Petrol · OP10 ERS

A recurring pattern of shock absorber oil misting and tyre wear defines the mechanical history of this SEAT Leon, though the most recent test on 02 March 2026 showed no defects recorded. The vehicle has exhibited a consistent trend of advisory items related to the suspension system, specifically light oil misting on the nearside front, offside front, and offside rear shock absorbers, which has been noted in consecutive tests since 2022. While the absence of defects in the latest inspection is a positive shift, the historical presence of multiple tyre advisories regarding edge wear and sidewall damage suggests a history of consumable replacement requirements. The vehicle has covered 55,242 miles over its approximately eight-year lifespan, representing an average annual usage of roughly 6,905 miles. This level of mileage is consistent with typical light-to-moderate usage for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this relatively low annual accumulation suggests that while heavy wear on high-mileage drivetrain components may be less prevalent, the vehicle is still subject to the standard degradation of rubber components, such as suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls, which can occur even with lower distance travelled. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension performance during a test drive, specifically looking for any signs that the previously noted oil misting on the shock absorbers has progressed to active leaks. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or thudding sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these can indicate that the damping efficiency of the struts has diminished. Additionally, check for any steering pull or unevenness in the handling, which could relate to the historical issues with tyre wear patterns and edge degradation noted in the 2024 records. Regarding the tyres, ensure that all four units have significant tread depth remaining and that the sidewalls are free from any cuts or bulges, particularly given the previous advisories for sidewall damage and edge wear. It is also worth verifying that the windscreen washer system is fully operational, as this was a specific point of failure in the 2021 inspection. A thorough check of the under trays, which were noted as fitted in 2023, should also be conducted to ensure they are secure and not causing any unusual aerodynamic noise or interference with the vehicle's underside.