2016 SEAT Leon 2.0L Diesel · OY66 OVA

The 2016 SEAT Leon’s latest MOT test on 23rd July 2026 resulted in a passing grade, though it carried two advisories related to the rear shock absorbers—both showing light oil misting on the offside units and the nearside unit—indicating early signs of wear beyond the legal threshold but not yet compromising roadworthiness. The trend in the MOT history over the past decade is stable, with no repeated failures or critical defects, though the recurring advisories on brake discs, tyre wear patterns, and seat belt integrity suggest a pattern of moderate wear that has been consistently monitored. The absence of major issues in the last two years—particularly the clean 2024 and 2023 tests—supports the vehicle’s overall reliability, though the persistent advisories warrant closer attention to prevent escalation into more severe mechanical or safety concerns. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 110,360 miles at the time of inspection represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,036 miles per year, which is typical for a 10-year-old car driven under mixed conditions. This mileage accumulation is consistent with the vehicle’s age and likely reflects a balanced driving profile, though the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the three-year interval between 2019 and 2022—could indicate periods of reduced use, potentially leading to minor standing-related wear, such as brake disc corrosion or caliper binding. However, the absence of higher mileage spikes suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive stress, which would accelerate wear on components like suspension bushes, tyres, or drivetrain elements. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the rear shock absorbers—light misting—should prompt a thorough inspection of the suspension system. Look for uneven ride height, excessive clunking or knocking when driving over bumps, or a loss of damping response, particularly on the offside units. The pitted or scored brake discs, noted in multiple advisories, indicate ongoing friction but not yet structural failure; however, listen for a grinding noise during braking, which could signal metal-to-metal contact if wear progresses further. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the offside front tyre, which may suggest misalignment or camber issues; inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall for cracks or perishing, as these can weaken the tyre structure over time. Additionally, verify the seat belt webbing for fraying or excessive stretching, which could compromise safety in a crash. Beyond the advisories, the vehicle’s age and mileage make it prudent to conduct a comprehensive physical inspection. Start with the tyres, ensuring the sidewall shows no signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion around terminals, a common issue in older vehicles, and test its charge capacity by attempting to start the engine and monitoring voltage readings. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as this can lead to binding or reduced braking efficiency. Finally, verify that the service history is up to date, with fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—recently serviced, as these fluids degrade over time and can affect performance and safety. If the vehicle has been driven at a steady rate, prioritise a visual check of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and confirm that the emissions system has not been tampered with, as older vehicles may require periodic servicing to maintain compliance.