2014 SEAT Leon 1.6L Diesel · OU64 OSE

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 October 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, continuing a stable pattern of clean test outcomes that has held since late 2023. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle passed in 2024 and 2025 without any advisories, suggesting that the issues flagged in earlier tests have been either rectified or have not progressed to failure level. Prior to that, the November 2022 test saw a failure driven by an illuminated engine management indicator and a tyre pressure monitoring system fault, alongside advisories concerning offside front suspension components and shock absorber oil misting. A subsequent retest on the same date cleared the failures, and the November 2021 and November 2020 tests passed with advisories related to tyre wear and shock absorber condition. The overall trend therefore reflects a vehicle that has passed consistently in its most recent examinations, with earlier concerns either addressed or remaining static. The recorded mileage of 90,260 miles against a twelve-year age equates to an annual average of approximately 7,500 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and indicates regular rather than intensive use. The MOT record shows tests roughly twelve months apart with mileage increments consistent with moderate driving, suggesting the vehicle has been in active service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. Given the modest annual mileage, wear on major drivetrain components is likely to be proportionate to usage, but age-related degradation of rubber, fluids, and electrical components should still be expected and inspected accordingly. There is no indication of rapid mileage accumulation or extended periods off the road that would raise particular concerns about either mechanical fatigue or standing-related deterioration. There are several recurring advisories in the history that warrant close physical attention from a prospective buyer. The offside front shock absorber was noted with light oil misting at both the 2020 and 2022 tests, and although it has not been flagged since, oil seepage from a damper typically progresses over time and can lead to reduced damping efficiency, longer stopping distances, and uneven tyre wear. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the offside front over uneven surfaces and observe whether the vehicle remains composed through bends or exhibits excessive body roll. The offside front inner suspension arm pin or bush, flagged in 2022 as worn but not yet resulting in excessive movement, should be inspected for play by a technician, as worn suspension bushes commonly cause imprecise steering, wandering at speed, and uneven inner or outer tyre shoulder wear. Additionally, the 2023 failure for an inoperative windscreen washer and ineffective wipers, though minor, is a reminder to confirm that all washer jets, wiper blades, and wiper linkage components are functioning correctly, as perished blades and blocked nozzles are common on older vehicles. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and mileage profile of this SEAT Leon mean that several time-based items merit verification before purchase. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and the earlier advisories on offside front and nearside rear tyre damage suggest this is an area requiring ongoing attention. Check the condition of the 12 volt battery, as units beyond five or six years often struggle in colder months and can cause erratic electrical behaviour. Examine the brake discs for signs of corrosion or pitting from light use and short journeys, and verify that the calipers are not binding by ensuring the vehicle rolls freely when released. Confirm that the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil have been changed in line with manufacturer schedules, as calendar-age degradation of these fluids is common on lower-mileage cars. Finally, ensure that the service book contains stamps or invoices at appropriate intervals and that the timing belt or chain replacement interval has been observed, as neglect of this on a twelve-year-old vehicle could result in serious engine damage.