2016 SEAT Alhambra 1.4L Petrol · OU66 WRG

Persistent inner edge wear on the front tyres represents the primary mechanical concern for this SEAT Alhambra, as evidenced by consistent advisories recorded across the 2024 and 2025 MOT tests. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent inspection on 21 August 2026 with no recorded defects, the recurring nature of this tyre wear pattern suggests a potential underlying issue with wheel alignment or suspension geometry that has persisted for several years. The 2024 test cycle included a failure due to a cut in an offside rear tyre, which, when combined with the ongoing front-end tyre wear, indicates that the vehicle has required frequent attention to its contact patches to maintain roadworthiness. Accumulating 63,742 miles over a ten-year period results in an average of approximately 6,374 miles per annum, a usage rate that is well within the expected range for a vehicle of this type. This moderate mileage profile suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive long-distance motorway work, nor has it been left stationary for extended periods, as the MOT history shows a consistent annual testing cadence since 2020. Mechanically, this usage pattern implies that while the drivetrain has not been pushed to high-mileage extremes, the suspension and steering components have been subjected to a decade of standard road conditions, which can lead to the gradual degradation of rubber bushes and ball joints. Given the history of inner edge tyre wear, a prospective buyer should prioritise a professional four-wheel alignment check immediately upon purchase to ensure the vehicle is tracking correctly. During a test drive, listen specifically for any knocking or clonking noises emanating from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as worn track rod ends or lower suspension arm bushes are common culprits for the specific wear patterns noted in the MOT records. Additionally, pay close attention to the steering feel; any tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side or a lack of responsiveness at the steering wheel could indicate that the alignment issues have caused premature wear in the steering rack or associated linkages. Inspect the condition of the tyres currently fitted to the vehicle, ensuring that the tread depth is uniform across the entire width of the tyre rather than showing the inner-edge bias seen in previous years. Because the Alhambra is a heavier vehicle, the suspension components are under greater stress; check that the vehicle sits level and that there is no excessive bouncing or wallowing when cornering, which would suggest that the shock absorbers are nearing the end of their effective service life. If the vehicle exhibits any vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, this may indicate that the tyres have been damaged or unevenly worn to the point of structural deformation, requiring replacement regardless of the remaining tread depth.