2016 SEAT Leon 2.0L Diesel · VR04 STP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 7 December 2023, was passed with no recorded failures, confirming that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that date. Across the six‑year MOT record the car has shown a consistent pattern of passing without major defects, the only recurring notes being advisories concerning front‑tyre tread depth in 2020 and again in 2023. This suggests a generally stable maintenance regime, though the tyre wear advisories indicate that the front tyres have been approaching the legal limit and may need attention soon. At 95 771 miles the 2016 SEAT Leon averages roughly 9 500 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a vehicle of its age. There are no obvious large mileage gaps in the recorded history, implying the car has been driven fairly regularly rather than sitting idle for extended periods. The cumulative mileage is moderate for a ten‑year‑old hatchback, meaning wear on the engine, gearbox and suspension components should be proportionate to age, but the front‑tyre wear hints at either aggressive cornering, alignment drift or uneven loading that the buyer should verify. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the front tyre condition. Measure the tread depth across the centre and both edges; any reading below 1.6 mm or significant variation between centre and edge indicates the tyre is close to or already beyond the legal limit and should be replaced promptly. While on the road, listen for any thumping or vibration that could signal a developing tyre separation, and feel for any pull to one side which may reveal misalignment or worn suspension bushes. Examine the wheel rims for cracks or corrosion, and check the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, especially if the tyres have been on the vehicle for more than three years, as rubber perishing can lead to sudden failure regardless of tread depth. Beyond the tyres, conduct a thorough age‑related inspection. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, looking for swollen cases or excessive electrolyte loss, and consider a load test as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour change, sediment or low levels, and arrange a change if the service history does not show a recent calendar‑based replacement. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding; any pulsation or squeal under braking would merit further examination. Finally, look for corrosion on chassis mounting points, suspension joints and exhaust hangers, and assess the condition of rubber bushings, boot seals and the drive‑belt; ageing elastomers can become brittle and cause noise or reduced handling precision. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.