2017 SEAT Ibiza 1.0L Petrol · OV67 FBZ

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 SEAT Ibiza occurred on 2025-12-04, resulting in a passing outcome with a single advisory regarding the nearside rear tyre’s wear pattern, specifically showing excessive lateral wear and nearing the legal limit. Despite this advisory, the vehicle’s MOT history over the past three years demonstrates a generally stable maintenance profile, with no failures beyond the 2023 test. The 2023 failure—particularly the exhaust emissions major and serious offside front shock absorber fluid leak—was a notable outlier, but subsequent tests have shown no recurrence of these critical issues, suggesting either corrective action was taken or the problems were transient. The front brake advisories from 2023, while concerning, were not deemed to compromise safety, and the vehicle passed subsequent inspections without further brake-related defects, indicating that while wear is present, it is not yet at a point requiring immediate intervention. The recorded mileage of 99,250 miles for a vehicle aged nine years reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,028 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical UK driving conditions. This figure does not suggest either excessive wear from high mileage or prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the slight variation in mileage accumulation—particularly the gap between 2022 and 2023—could indicate periods of reduced use, potentially leading to minor issues such as standing corrosion on the offside front suspension components or fluid degradation in the exhaust system. The absence of high-mileage-related failures in recent tests supports the notion that the vehicle has been maintained reasonably well, but the 2023 exhaust emissions major remains a red flag, warranting closer inspection of the catalytic converter and fuel system for long-term reliability. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the front suspension and braking systems, as these areas have shown recurring advisories. The offside front shock absorbers exhibited serious fluid leaks in 2023, which may have been addressed but could reoccur if the seals or internals are compromised. Listen for uneven suspension clunks or a loss of damping during cornering or over bumps, and inspect the shock absorbers visually for any signs of oil leakage around the mounting points or excessive wear. The front brake discs and pads from 2023 were noted to be worn thin and pitted, which could lead to reduced braking performance or uneven wear if not serviced soon. Test the brakes for binding, excessive vibration, or a shuddering sensation when applying pressure, and verify that the discs do not show signs of warping or corrosion that could affect stopping distances. Additionally, the nearside rear tyre’s lateral wear suggests potential alignment or suspension misalignment, so a professional inspection of the wheel alignment and suspension geometry is recommended. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the vehicle’s age and usage profile by conducting a series of practical inspections. Given the tyre’s age and mileage, examine the sidewalls for signs of dry rot, cracking, or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. The 2023 exhaust emissions failure highlights the need to verify the catalytic converter’s function and the fuel injection system’s efficiency, as emissions-related issues often escalate over time. Check for any unusual noises from the exhaust, such as rattling or backpressure, which may indicate a failing catalytic converter or exhaust manifold. The battery should be tested for voltage and charge retention, especially given the vehicle’s age and potential for prolonged periods of inactivity. Finally, since the vehicle’s last service history is not provided, the buyer should confirm that the service book records are up to date, particularly for fluid changes such as the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the mileage and age, a full fluid refresh and a thorough inspection of the drivetrain components, including the clutch and gearbox, would be prudent to ensure long-term reliability.