2015 SEAT Ibiza 1.4L Petrol · YY65 AAO

This 2015 SEAT Ibiza presents a mechanical history dominated by a recurring pattern of front suspension advisories that have appeared at virtually every test for the last three years, suggesting an underlying wear trend rather than isolated incidents. The most recent MOT on 27 October 2025 was a pass, but it continued the theme of nearside front shock absorber oil misting that has been flagged annually since 2022, alongside fresh tyre wear advisories on the nearside rear and offside front inner edges. The 2024 test added a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover to the record, and the 2023 test noted oil misting on both front shock absorbers simultaneously, indicating the dampers are progressively reaching the end of their service life. Although the vehicle has not failed an MOT, the consistency of these suspension-related advisories is the defining mechanical story and points to components that will likely require replacement within the next 12 to 24 months. With 161,866 miles recorded across approximately 11 years of use, this Ibiza has covered around 14,715 miles annually, which is notably above average for its age and points to sustained high-mileage driving rather than periods of standing. The mileage progression between tests shows steady accumulation with no significant gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service throughout its life. Mechanically, this usage profile accelerates wear on the very components showing advisory history, namely front suspension dampers, anti-roll bar linkages, tyres, and exhaust hardware. The 2024 advisory noting a snapped central exhaust clamp despite the system remaining secure is consistent with high-mileage fatigue of mounting components, while the repeated tyre edge wear advisories suggest the wheel alignment may be drifting out of specification as bushes and dampers degrade. A prospective buyer should focus the physical inspection on the front suspension, particularly the nearside upper shock absorber and the anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, where visible oil residue around the damper body or perished, cracked dust covers will confirm the advisories are worsening. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps or potholes, and pay attention to any vagueness in steering response or a tendency for the vehicle to wallow through corners, both of which would indicate the dampers are losing damping efficiency. The anti-roll bar linkage should be checked by rocking each front wheel laterally at the bottom while stationary; any play or clunking suggests the joint has worn beyond the dust cover deterioration already recorded. Tyre wear is another area demanding close attention, as edge wear on both inner and outer shoulders across multiple positions suggests persistent alignment issues, possibly stemming from worn suspension bushes or collapsed damper units allowing geometry to shift under load. Inspect all four tyres for uneven shoulder wear and check the sidewalls for cracking, mirroring the perishing previously noted on rear tyres. The exhaust system should be examined underneath for the condition of the remaining clamps and hangers, and a careful listen for any blowing noises or rattles on the over-run, given the prior failure of the central clamp. Finally, because of the high annual mileage and recurring front suspension wear pattern, a pre-purchase inspection on a ramp would be highly advisable to assess strut top mounts, wishbone bushes, and rear axle components that may not yet have triggered advisories but are likely approaching similar fatigue thresholds.