2022 SEAT Ateca 1.0L Petrol · SP22 UPJ

Tyre wear and rear‑brake pad thinning dominate the current mechanical picture; the 2026 MOT was passed but flagged both front tyres as being within two millimetres of the legal minimum tread and one front sidewall showing early cracking, while the rear brake pads were recorded as thin on both sides. The preceding year’s test showed no defects, indicating that the tyre and brake wear have emerged only in the most recent twelve‑month period rather than representing a long‑standing issue. At 22,858 miles after just over four years of age the vehicle averages roughly 5,700 miles per annum, a mileage level that is low for a contemporary SEAT Ateca. Such modest annual use can point to periods of limited driving or extended storage, which in turn can allow tyre tread to deteriorate unevenly and brake pads to wear without the benefit of regular heat cycles that help even wear. The low mileage does not mask any testing gaps—the MOT record is continuous, with annual tests in February, confirming that the vehicle has been on the road consistently enough to generate the observed wear patterns. Prospective buyers should give the front tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any irregularities in tread depth across the width, especially near the edges, and feel for soft spots or cracks in the sidewall that could precede a failure. A road test should include listening for a humming or thumping noise that may indicate uneven tyre wear, and checking that the steering feels stable without vibration at higher speeds. Because the rear brake pads are already thin, the braking pedal may feel slightly softer or exhibit a higher-pitched squeal under moderate braking; measuring the remaining pad thickness with a gauge is advisable, and budgeting for replacement within the next few thousand miles would be prudent. Although no other components have been recorded as defective, a comprehensive pre‑purchase check should still cover the suspension bushes, coil springs and steering linkages for any signs of wear, such as clunking over bumps or a pull to one side when braking. Verify that the exhaust system is free of leaks and that there is no visible corrosion on the wheel arches or undercarriage, as low‑usage vehicles can sometimes develop hidden rust when stored for extended periods. Confirm that all lights, indicators and wipers operate correctly, and ensure the vehicle’s service records (if available) show routine oil and filter changes to complement the MOT findings.