2017 SEAT Ibiza 1.0L Petrol · SD67 CLO

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 10 November 2025 resulted in a PASS, although the same date also shows a FAIL with a Major defect for an offside front anti-roll bar linkage that was damaged and seriously weakened. This dual entry indicates the vehicle was initially failed but was repaired and subsequently passed the same day, with the anti-roll bar link likely replaced to bring the suspension back to a roadworthy condition. Reviewing the broader history, the trend is one of consistent advisories accumulating around the front suspension and braking components, with the 2023 test largely clean, the 2024 test introducing a track rod end dust cover failure alongside worsening brake disc wear, and the 2025 test escalating to a major anti-roll bar link defect. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the pattern suggests progressive front-end wear that a buyer should not overlook, as multiple related chassis components have been flagged in consecutive tests. With a recorded mileage of 74,866 miles over approximately nine years, this SEAT Ibiza has covered an average of around 8,300 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. This neither suggests excessive motorway mileage nor extended periods of standing unused, both of which carry their own implications. A steady accumulation of this nature tends to produce even wear on mechanical consumables, meaning the suspension, braking, and drivetrain components are likely to be in a mid-life state where items such as brake discs, pads, tyres, and front suspension bushes are approaching or have already passed their second replacement cycle. There is no obvious mileage gap to suggest long-term storage issues, but equally no guarantee that a full service history with regular oil and filter changes has been maintained, which should be verified independently. The most pressing concern from the MOT history is the cluster of front suspension advisories. The nearside front suspension arm with a damaged back bush, noted in November 2025, should be inspected closely, as worn or perished suspension bushes typically produce clonking or knocking noises over speed humps and uneven surfaces, vague or wandering steering, and uneven inner-edge tyre wear. The anti-roll bar linkage failure from the same test is also worth checking during a road test, as a renewed link should now be fitted, but any remaining looseness or rattling through corners may suggest adjacent anti-roll bar bushes are also worn. The recurring advisories for front shock absorbers showing light oil misting across the 2024 and 2025 tests are particularly relevant, as this typically signals failing seal integrity and will progressively worsen, leading to reduced damping, longer stopping distances, and increased crashiness over poor road surfaces. A thorough test drive should include firm braking to detect any dive, speed-bump passage to expose suspension noise, and a check that the car settles quickly after a bounce at each corner. The braking system requires particular attention given the repeated advisories for worn, pitted, or scored front brake discs across both 2024 and 2025. Pitting of this nature can lead to brake shudder under heavy application, juddering through the steering wheel, and reduced efficiency, especially in wet conditions. A buyer should feel for any vibration through the pedal or steering when braking firmly and listen for grinding or scraping noises. Given the advisories have now spanned two consecutive tests, it is reasonable to budget for replacement front discs and pads in the near term. The parking brake lever ratchet mechanism, flagged as worn in both 2024 and 2025, should be tested on an incline to ensure the handbrake holds securely without excessive travel, as a worn mechanism can compromise holding ability and may eventually fail to provide sufficient rear wheel lock. Finally, beyond the recorded defects, a 2017 Ibiza of this age warrants inspection of the timing belt or chain service interval, a 12-volt battery health check, examination of tyre sidewalls for age-related perishing or cracking, a coolant and brake fluid replacement verification, and a thorough check for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox, all of which are standard due-diligence items for a vehicle approaching the ten-year mark.