2016 SEAT Ibiza 1.0L Petrol · OV16 WGP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 December 2025, was a pass but returned several advisories – notably a worn front inner suspension arm pin or bush, slight splitting of the rear arm bushes and a number of rear‑tyre defects including cracking and a cut. Over the preceding years the record shows a clear progression from clean tests in 2019‑2021 to increasing tyre wear warnings in 2022, recurring brake‑disc condition advisories from 2022 onward and the appearance of suspension‑component wear in the latest test. The overall maintenance trend is therefore deteriorating rather than stabilising, with multiple systems now approaching the point where remedial work will be required. At ten years old the Ibiza has logged only 39 555 miles, an average of roughly 3 950 miles per annum – well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles a year. Such low mileage often reflects periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage, which can accelerate age‑related degradation even when mechanical wear from distance is modest. The disparity between age and distance suggests that components are more likely to suffer from calendar‑related perishing (tyres, rubber bushings, seals and battery) than from high‑mileage fatigue, but any sudden spikes in mileage after long stands could place additional strain on the drivetrain and suspension. A prospective buyer should give the tyres immediate attention. All four should be measured for tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm) and inspected for sidewall cracking, dry rot or the cut noted on the off‑side rear tyre; any perished or damaged tyre should be replaced before the next MOT. While on the road, listen for a hollow thump or clunk when braking or negotiating bumps, which may indicate the front inner arm bush or rear arm bushes are nearing the end of their service life. The brake discs have been flagged as pitted and scored on both front wheels for several years; a visual inspection for deep scoring, rust spots and uneven wear, combined with a measurement of disc thickness, will reveal whether a disc or pad replacement is imminent. The wiper blades and headlamp aim failed in 2024, so verify that the current blades clear the screen effectively and that the headlamps are correctly aligned; mis‑aimed lights can affect night‑time safety and may require adjustment or replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, also check the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity even without heavy cycling. Examine the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for signs of contamination or old colour – fluids degrade with time and should be refreshed on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Inspect the chassis and under‑body for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and the rear sub‑frame, which can develop corrosion during long periods of standing. Finally, request any service book stamps or receipts to confirm that routine oil changes, brake fluid flushes and suspension inspections have been carried out in line with the manufacturer’s schedule; a well‑documented service history will mitigate many of the age‑related concerns highlighted by the MOT record.