2018 SEAT Leon 1.0L Petrol · OY18 VVB

Recurring advisories concerning shock absorber oil misting and brake disc deterioration define the mechanical profile of this SEAT Leon. The most recent test on 23 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but it documented a continuing trend of wear, specifically noting that the rear brake discs are worn, pitted, or scored. This follows a consistent pattern of advisories for both nearside and offside rear shock absorbers exhibiting light oil misting, a condition that has appeared in various forms since at least July 2022. The presence of a damaged undertray in the latest inspection further adds to the list of non-critical but notable wear items identified over the last several testing cycles. The vehicle has covered 74,494 miles over its eight-year lifespan, averaging approximately 9,312 miles per year. This mileage accumulation is consistent with typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. From a mechanical perspective, this steady rate of use suggests that components such as the suspension, braking system, and tyres are subject to regular, predictable wear rather than the extreme stress of high-mileage motorway driving or the potential stagnation issues associated with very low annual mileage. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and braking components during a physical inspection and test drive. The repeated advisories for oil misting on the shock absorbers indicate that the seals are beginning to weep, which can eventually lead to a loss of damping effectiveness. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces and monitor the vehicle for excessive bouncing or a lack of stability over bumps, which would indicate the dampers are no longer controlling the spring movement effectively. The ongoing advisories regarding the rear brake discs being pitted or scored warrant a close inspection of the braking system. Check for any noticeable judder through the brake pedal or steering wheel when applying the brakes at various speeds, as surface irregularities on the discs can cause vibration. Additionally, given the advisory for inner tyre wear on the edges in 2024, it is advisable to inspect the current tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns across all four tyres, which could indicate underlying issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry.