2019 SEAT Ateca 1.5L Petrol · WN19 WNL

The most recent MOT in May 2026 was a pass, but it confirms a persistent issue with the front suspension. Both the nearside and offside front shock absorbers showed light oil misting, a defect that has appeared consistently in every test since 2024. This pattern indicates a stable but unresolved mechanical trend rather than a sudden failure or an improving condition. The rear tyres were flagged for being worn close to the legal limit in 2024, but this specific advisory did not reappear in the 2025 or 2026 reports, suggesting those tyres have likely been replaced since then. However, the recurring shock absorber warnings imply the damping performance is gradually degrading without yet reaching the point of mandatory failure. With 58,338 miles recorded on a seven-year-old vehicle, the annual average of roughly 8,300 miles is typical and suggests normal usage rather than extreme hard driving or long periods of inactivity. This mileage level means standard wear items like suspension bushes and dampers are entering the age where replacement becomes probable, even if the car has not been abused. The consistent appearance of oil misting over three consecutive years signals that the seals are leaking slowly and the components are approaching the end of their effective service life. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the front suspension immediately. Request a physical bounce test to check for excessive movement or knocking noises that the visual oil misting might precede.