SEAT ALHAMBRA (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,514 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
2,514
Avg Mileage
124,005 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SEAT brand average of 85%.
At 12 years old, 76% of SEAT ALHAMBRAs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,514 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 124,005 miles.
How does the 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA has 124,005 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a SEAT ALHAMBRA?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2012 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SEAT ALHAMBRA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 73% | 75 | 27,872 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 1,380 | 38,278 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 4,394 | 53,999 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 4,108 | 70,018 mi |
| 2017 | 86% | 9,699 | 86,445 mi |
| 2016 | 85% | 6,815 | 106,522 mi |
| 2015 | 82% | 3,698 | 112,826 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 3,129 | 110,232 mi |
| 2013 | 79% | 2,677 | 111,898 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 2,514 | 124,005 mi |
| 2011 | 77% | 2,167 | 127,765 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 643 | 135,758 mi |
| 2009 | 66% | 615 | 140,976 mi |
| 2008 | 67% | 967 | 143,588 mi |
| 2007 | 64% | 858 | 139,944 mi |
| 2006 | 66% | 642 | 145,145 mi |
| 2005 | 67% | 526 | 149,540 mi |
| 2004 | 65% | 676 | 151,281 mi |
| 2003 | 63% | 393 | 147,953 mi |
| 2002 | 62% | 208 | 142,785 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 68 | 133,983 mi |
| 1999 | 70% | 40 | 137,426 mi |
| 1998 | 66% | 91 | 142,462 mi |
| 1997 | 73% | 52 | 126,277 mi |
Checking a specific SEAT ALHAMBRA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA
The 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA is a small family car with a 1600cc diesel engine. 2,514 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 76% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 124,005 miles at 12 years old, SEAT ALHAMBRA owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA Fuel Costs
The 1600cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SEAT ALHAMBRA Reliability Trend
Newer SEAT ALHAMBRAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 15 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA
At 12 years old, the SEAT ALHAMBRA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2012 SEAT ALHAMBRA
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (+1%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+11%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+3%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+4%) from 81,831 tests