2018 SEAT Ateca 1.4L Petrol · TM59 CON

The most recent MOT on 13 April 2026 was passed, but it carried advisories that the front brake pads are now thin and the front brake discs are worn, pitted or scored, though not yet seriously weakened. Over the preceding three years the same brake‑related advisories have been repeated each April, and in 2025 the vehicle failed a test because a near‑side rear tyre had exposed ply or cords. The pattern shows a gradual deterioration rather than an improvement, with brake wear persisting and tyre condition slipping to a dangerous level at one point. At 72,861 mi recorded for a 2018 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 9,100 mi per year, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious long gaps in the log that would suggest prolonged storage, nor is there evidence of a sudden surge in mileage that would accelerate wear beyond what the age would predict. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is consistent with a vehicle that has been driven regularly but not excessively. For a prospective buyer the brake system warrants immediate attention. The front pads are approaching the minimum thickness and should be replaced before the next service; if the pads are worn the discs will be forced to over‑heat, accelerating the existing pitting and potentially leading to vibration or a pulsating pedal at higher speeds. Listen for any high‑pitched squeal or feel a soft, spongy pedal under light braking – both are classic signs of worn pads. The front discs, already scored, may soon require resurfacing or replacement, especially if the pads are not changed promptly. Rear discs are also showing scoring, so a visual inspection for deep grooves and a test‑drive brake feel check for any pull to one side is advisable. The 2025 failure due to exposed rear‑tyre ply indicates that tyre health is a critical issue; the near‑side rear tyre should be inspected for cuts, bulges or delamination, and given the repeated “worn close to legal limit” advisories on all four corners, a full tyre set replacement is likely needed. Check the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking as the tyres are now eight years old, and verify that the remaining tread depth exceeds the 1.6 mm legal minimum. Additional items to scrutinise include the oil leak noted in the 2022 MOT – locate any fresh oil stains around the valve cover or oil filter housing and confirm that the leak is not worsening, as a progressive leak can lead to low oil level and engine wear. The 2021 advisory about light oil mist from the off‑side rear shock absorber suggests possible seal wear; a bounce test should reveal any loss of damping or leaking fluid. Given the vehicle’s age, have the battery tested for cranking amps and inspect the terminals for corrosion, as a long‑standing battery may be near the end of its service life. Finally, arrange a brake fluid flush (recommended every two years) and a coolant change if the service records do not show recent attention, because fluids degrade with time even on modest mileage. These checks will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the near‑term budget required to keep it safe and reliable.