2022 SEAT Leon FR TSI EVO 1.0L Petrol · OY72 HDF

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2022 SEAT LEON FR TSI EVO was conducted on 12 January 2026, where the vehicle was issued a PASS, but it is important to note that this pass was recorded alongside a contemporaneous FAIL entry from the same date. The failure was attributed to a Major defect under section 8.2.1.2 (d) for emissions testing being unable to be completed due to multiple active dashboard warnings. These warnings included the TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), fuel warning, service and inspection reminder, and an add oil warning. The advisories recorded on both entries also flagged front tyre wear close to the legal limit on both edges, as well as slight damage, cracking, or perishing on the offside front tyre. While the vehicle has ultimately passed its most recent assessment, the simultaneous presence of multiple unresolved dashboard warnings on a relatively young vehicle suggests that the maintenance trend cannot be deemed stable. The ignition of an emissions-related Major defect indicates that the owner may have neglected fundamental service intervals or fluid top-ups, which warrants careful scrutiny of the service book and oil level on inspection. The recorded mileage of 23,550 miles over approximately four years equates to an average annual usage of around 5,888 miles, which is notably below average for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage can reflect a mix of lighter usage and potentially extended standing periods. While low mileage generally reduces wear on high-friction components like the clutch and engine internals, it brings its own mechanical considerations. Vehicles that stand for prolonged periods are susceptible to brake disc corrosion, brake caliper binding or seizure, and deterioration of rubber and plastic components through lack of regular flexing. Furthermore, calendar-based degradation of fluids such as brake fluid (which typically requires replacement every two years due to hygroscopic moisture absorption) and the 12V battery (which can suffer from sulphation and reduced capacity when not kept regularly charged) are significant concerns for any prospective buyer evaluating this Leon. Given the recorded advisories and the failure related to emissions and dashboard warnings, a thorough physical inspection is highly advised before purchase. The advisories regarding the front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and suffering from perishing mean the tyres will almost certainly require immediate replacement, which also provides an opportunity to inspect the wheel alignment, as uneven edge wear can point to worn suspension bushes or weakened coil springs. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any suspension clunks over uneven road surfaces, feel for any pulling to one side which may indicate alignment issues, and test the brakes firmly to ensure there is no shudder or grinding noise that might reveal corroded discs or binding calipers. It is also vital to verify that the previously illuminated dashboard warnings have been properly diagnosed and rectified. The add oil warning and service reminders must be checked against the service history to confirm that the correct grade of oil was used and that there are no underlying leaks from the turbocharger oil feed or sump gasket, which are known areas of attention on the TSI EVO engine. Beyond addressing the specific test defects, general age and usage-related checks remain essential for this SEAT Leon. Despite the low mileage, the vehicle is now four years old, meaning rubber components such as the timing belt (if applicable to this variant), auxiliary drive belts, and coolant hoses should be inspected for perishing or hardening. The exhaust system, including the flexi-joint and mounting rubbers, should be checked for corrosion and structural integrity, particularly given the failure was emissions-related. The 12V battery should be load tested to ensure it can hold adequate charge, as standing periods combined with the vehicle's complex electronic systems can quickly drain an ageing battery. Finally, all fluid levels and their respective service histories should be verified, ensuring that the brake fluid, coolant, and DSG or manual gearbox oil have been replaced in line with calendar-based manufacturer recommendations to guarantee the long-term roadworthiness of this low-mileage example.