2022 Cupra Formentor V2 TSI 1.5L Petrol · ST22 PHT

A chronic pattern of tyre deterioration is the defining feature of this CUPRA Formentor's recorded MOT history, with two near-identical advisories for perishing and cracking on the nearside front and rear tyres raised at the June 2026 test. Although the vehicle passed on that occasion, the symmetry of the wear on the nearside suggests the issue may not be purely age-related and could point to under-inflation, kerbing damage, or simply prolonged standing causing the sidewall rubber to deteriorate. A single major failure was logged on 2 September 2025 for an excessively deep cut on the nearside rear tyre exposing ply or cords, which on its own is a straightforward consumable issue, but the recurrence of tyre-related concerns across consecutive tests indicates that wheel and rubber condition warrants close inspection at the point of purchase. With only 8,892 miles recorded over four years, annual accumulation is averaging around 2,223 miles, which is low for a vehicle of this age. Light usage of this nature typically places limited demand on wear items such as brake friction material, clutch (where applicable), and drivetrain components, but it does mean the car is more likely to have spent extended periods stationary. The recorded front brake disc pitting and scoring advisory from September 2025 is consistent with such a usage profile, as discs left exposed to moisture without regular frictional cleaning from sustained braking are prone to surface corrosion and pitting even where pad wear remains minimal. A prospective buyer should begin any physical inspection with the four tyres, checking the nearside pair particularly carefully for sidewall cracking, perishing, bulges, or cuts deep enough to expose the internal cords, and confirming that all four tyres are of matching manufacturer, size, and tread depth since uneven tyres on a performance-oriented SUV can affect ABS and traction control calibration. On a test drive, listen for any vibrations through the steering wheel which could indicate uneven tyre wear or distorted sidewalls, and pay attention to vehicle tracking, as a persistent pull to the nearside may suggest suspension geometry misalignment rather than a simple tyre issue. The front brake system requires equally focused attention given the 2025 advisory. With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, listen for any scraping or grinding from the front wheels which would suggest pads running low against already-pitted discs, and on the road test, apply the brakes firmly from around 30 mph to feel for any pulsation through the brake pedal or steering wheel, a classic symptom of brake disc runout caused by uneven corrosion. Inspect the visible face of each front disc through the wheel spokes for a pronounced lip at the outer edge, heavy scoring lines, or patches of orange rust that have not been cleaned off by recent braking, and check that the handbrake holds the vehicle on an incline without creeping, as seized caliper slides or rear brake mechanisms can develop after prolonged periods of light use.