2016 SEAT Alhambra 2.0L Diesel · PO03 ANN

The SEAT Alhambra’s MOT history shows a vehicle that has passed its most recent test in March 2026 at 79,301 miles, but with a clear trend of recurring and unresolved mechanical issues. While the car meets current roadworthiness standards, the pattern suggests deferred maintenance rather than outright neglect. The March 2026 test highlighted corrosion on the rear lower suspension arms—now described as not seriously weakened but still present—alongside a nearside rear tyre worn dangerously close to the legal limit and damaged inner edges. This follows a consistent theme: suspension wear (bushes and pins) has been flagged since at least 2023, with the 2024 test noting both front and rear bushes, and the 2026 entry escalating to structural corrosion. Brake discs were also pitted across multiple tests, indicating either aggressive driving or delayed replacement. The persistence of these faults, particularly the suspension and tyre issues, implies that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, it is being operated at the limits of its safe condition. The mileage accumulation of roughly 7,900 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the data reveals a critical gap: no MOT was recorded between February 2022 (55,547 miles) and February 2023 (60,894 miles), a span of over 14 months. This absence suggests either a missed test or, more likely, the vehicle was exempt due to age (pre-2018 models over 40,000 miles are MOT-exempt after three years). However, the subsequent tests—spaced annually—show a steady but unremarkable increase, with no sudden spikes that might indicate heavy use or abuse. The lack of defects in the 2022 test contrasts sharply with the recurring issues from 2023 onward, pointing to either a period of more diligent care or simply better luck in avoiding detectable faults. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent areas to inspect in person are the suspension components, particularly the rear lower arms and their mounting points, where corrosion has been documented. The tester’s notes in 2026 describe the corrosion as not yet structurally critical, but this is a warning sign that the vehicle has likely been exposed to moisture or salt without adequate protection. Binding or worn suspension bushes—flagged on both front and rear since 2023—will degrade ride quality and handling, and if left unaddressed, could lead to premature tyre wear or even steering instability. The brake system, with pitted discs noted in 2024, should be checked for uneven wear or excessive vibration, as this can indicate misalignment or caliper binding. Tyres remain a weak point: the inner-edge wear and cracking on multiple tyres suggest poor wheel alignment or aggressive cornering, while the presence of a nail in the tread during the 2025 test hints at a history of punctures or improper repairs. A thorough check of the exhaust system for leaks or rust, given the vehicle’s age, would also be prudent.