2013 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · OU63 CWT

The most recent MOT inspection on 10 August 2026 resulted in a pass, though it highlighted an advisory regarding the offside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit and specifically worn on the edge. When reviewing the longitudinal maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of progressive wear in the suspension and chassis components rather than a clear improvement. While the vehicle has consistently passed its tests, the recurring advisories regarding suspension bushes, anti-roll bars, and coil spring corrosion suggest a vehicle that is entering a phase of age-related component degradation. The transition from suspension bush advisories in previous years to structural corrosion advisories in 2025 indicates that while the mechanical running gear is being maintained, the underlying chassis and suspension hardware are beginning to show their age. With 143,936 miles recorded over approximately thirteen years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 11,000 miles per year. This represents very typical, consistent usage for a large MPV like the SEAT Alhambra, suggesting it has not been subject to the extremes of either excessive high-speed motorway commuting or the detrimental effects of long-term stationary periods. This steady mileage profile generally implies a more predictable wear pattern on consumables such as brake discs, pads, and clutch components. However, at this mileage and age, the cumulative fatigue on rubber components and metal fatigue in the suspension system is expected, and the buyer should view the mileage as a baseline for significant wear on all major mechanical assemblies. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the suspension and chassis during a thorough test drive. The history of worn suspension arm bushes and corroded anti-roll bars, alongside the recent advisory for corroded coil springs, suggests that the vehicle may exhibit knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Furthermore, the advisory regarding the offside rear tyre being worn on the edge is a significant indicator of potential wheel alignment issues or uneven suspension geometry. You should check for any pulling to one side during braking or straight-line driving and inspect the tyre tread patterns on all four wheels to ensure they are wearing evenly. If the suspension components have not been replaced following the 2025 corrosion advisories, you should anticipate an imminent requirement for significant suspension overhaul to maintain ride quality and safety. Beyond the recorded mechanical defects, the age of the vehicle necessitates a physical inspection of secondary items that MOT testers do not always scrutinise in detail. Given the 2025 advisories regarding corrosion, a close inspection of the underside for heavy scale or structural rot is essential. You should also check the condition of all rubber hoses and belts, as these degrade via time and heat cycles regardless of mileage. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even if tread depth is sufficient. Finally, verify the service history for evidence of regular fluid changes, specifically engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these are critical for preventing internal engine wear and ensuring the integrity of the braking system in a vehicle of this age and mileage.