2007 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · WM07 MSO

The most recent MOT, dated 16 August 2023, was passed but carried three advisories – a minor exhaust leak, corrosion on the nearside front lower suspension arm and a nearside rear tyre approaching the legal tread limit. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a series of failures in 2020 and early 2022 to consecutive passes in 2021, 2022 and 2023, indicating that the owner has addressed the most serious faults and that the overall maintenance trend is now stabilising, though the persistence of wear‑related advisories shows that consumables are reaching the end of their service life. At 152 891 miles for a 2007 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8 000 mi, which is typical for a car of this age. There are no evident periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest severe over‑use, nor are there large gaps that might hint at long periods of storage. The mileage level means that major drivetrain components such as the gearbox, clutch and engine bearings are likely to have accumulated a fair amount of wear, but they are not yet in the high‑risk zone where catastrophic failure becomes common. The key concern is the cumulative effect of mileage on wear items – tyres, brake pads, suspension bushes and steering linkages – all of which are showing signs of approaching the end of their service intervals. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the exhaust system; a minor leak can allow fumes to enter the cabin and may develop into a larger crack under heat cycling. Check the underside for rust around the nearside front lower arm and verify that the arm is still solidly attached – any clunking over bumps or a noticeable play in the wheel when the car is lifted points to deteriorating bushes. The tyre wear noted on both front and rear wheels should be measured; tread depth below 1.6 mm is illegal, and uneven edge wear can indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Verify that all exterior lamps – position, stop and registration plate lights – are operational, as repeated failures in this area have been recorded. On a test drive listen for any squeal or shudder when applying the brakes, which would confirm the thin front pads and could also reveal warped discs or sticking calipers. The steering should feel tight and free of play; excessive play in the ball joints was flagged in 2020, so a firm steering response without a loose feel at the wheel rim is essential. Given the age of the vehicle, also inspect items that deteriorate with time rather than use. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry rot, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any signs of sulphation or leaking acid, as batteries over 10 years often need replacement. Look for corrosion on the chassis, particularly around the anti‑roll bar linkage where the dust cover was previously noted as compromised – a rusted or cracked cover can allow moisture to accelerate wear on the bushings. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil, coolant and brake fluid changes; fluids degrade over calendar time even if the car is not driven heavily, and fresh fluids are vital for protecting engine and braking systems in a vehicle of this vintage.