2013 SEAT Leon 2.0L Diesel · RH02 GTH

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2013 SEAT Leon resulted in a pass on 10 October 2025, following a failure the previous day. While the vehicle is currently compliant, the recent failure history indicates a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. The failure in late 2025 for a worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and a worn suspension arm bush, alongside a missing wheel fixing, suggests that components are being addressed only when they reach a critical threshold of failure. Although the vehicle has passed its most recent test, the recurring nature of suspension and braking issues in the preceding years indicates that the maintenance trend is somewhat inconsistent, requiring a more vigilant approach to component replacement. With a recorded mileage of 101,914 miles over approximately 13 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,840 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual usage rate compared to the UK national average, which often implies lighter overall engine wear but carries the risk of age-related degradation from periods of standing. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, mechanical wear is often more closely tied to the passage of time and environmental exposure rather than high-intensity mileage accumulation. You should be mindful that components such as rubber seals, suspension bushings, and tyre compounds can perish or lose elasticity due to age, even if the vehicle has not been driven extensively. A significant concern highlighted by the MOT history is the recurring advisory regarding tyre condition, specifically cracking and perishing on the offside front and rear tyres. This indicates that the rubber is likely hardening and losing its structural integrity due to age, which can lead to sudden failure or reduced grip in wet conditions. During your test drive, you must inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for fine cracks and check the tread depth across the entire width of the tyre. Furthermore, the history of binding rear brakes and worn brake pads suggests that the braking system may be prone to corrosion or caliper seizure, common in vehicles that are not driven frequently. Listen for any scraping noises, feel for a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, or notice if the car pulls to one side during deceleration, which could indicate a sticking caliper. Regarding the suspension, the recent failure for a worn anti-roll bar linkage and suspension arm bush means these parts have recently been serviced, but you should still listen for any rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps. Such noises are classic symptoms of degraded suspension bushes or worn ball joints. Given the vehicle's age and the tendency for components to degrade through standing, I also recommend verifying the service history for evidence of fluid changes, specifically brake fluid and coolant, which should be replaced on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, check the underside of the vehicle for signs of excessive corrosion on the exhaust system and structural members, as well as ensuring the windscreen washer system is fully functional to avoid further failures.