2001 Seat Leon SE 1.9 TDI

Summary:

Potentially a great car

Faults:

The car had a squeaky clutch which has now been rectified by the dealer.

The drivers seat belt has a fray in it and I am still waiting to have it replaced by the dealer.

One of the rear number plate lights keeps falling out and again the dealer still awaits the part (3 months).

BY FAR THE BIGGEST PROBLEM is the fact that water seems to leek into the rear foot-wells from somewhere, causing the vehicle to mist up and smell. I would like to hear from anyone with a similar problem that has been rectified as my dealer does not fill me with confidence.

General Comments:

This is potentially a great car, but let down by minor problems and bad after sales service - in my experience.

Comfortable.

Looks great, though a bit plasticy inside.

Performs well, yet frugal.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 26th February, 2002

26th Feb 2002, 14:51

The water leaks are a common fault on the Leon.

Dealers are aware of it.

10th May 2002, 08:13

I've got the same water problems in the rear foot-wells. Next week my dealer will solve the problems. Besides the water problems I've got also a strange engine noise, something like a ticking valve.

2001 Seat Leon SE Tdi 110

Summary:

By far the best car I've owned!

Faults:

4400 miles: Boot (Trunk) latch seized. Needed a bit of oil. Courteous service by dealer.

6000 miles: Airbag warning light illuminated. Part replaced under warranty. Dealer was waiting 8 weeks for part, until I intervened and contacted SEAT UK directly. The part arrived the following day!

8400: Finish of door handle starting to bubble and peel away. Common fault apparently. Will be replaced under warranty soon.

General Comments:

I love this car! Excellent performance from the engine, coupled with a lovely gear change. Quick steering, and good manoeuvrability.

Excellent driving position, and easy to get comfortable.

The interior is generally a high quality finish, except for one door handle (see faults).

Economy is good (48 M.P.G. overall average).

Levels of standard equipment high: climate control, electric folding/heated/adjustable mirrors, electric windows all round, excellent sound system with eight speakers.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th February, 2002

27th Jan 2003, 05:35

I agree that the gearchange action itself is good, but I found the gearchange doesn't like to be hurried.

I disagree when you call the driving position excellent. The seats don't have a tilt mechanism and lack under thigh support. The seat squab is flat and I found it uncomfortable. They don't have adjustable lumbar support either.

I agree that equipment levels are high, but then that is why the SE version costs £3k more than the S version, when new.

2001 Seat Leon S 1.4 16v

Summary:

Initially good, but disappointing of late

Faults:

Firstly the 2nd battery failed after just 3 days of ownership. Was put right quickly by the garage, however recent damp and cold conditions have meant that the car mists up and the back window fills with condensation. This was taken back to the garage and they claimed to have found the source and sealed it. This is still happening and it is due to go back in soon, I would like to hear of anyone else with a similar fault.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd January, 2002

13th Apr 2004, 04:18

I had the same problem with my Seat Leon and it was because the door seal on the drivers door was leaking, since I have had this fixed and the car has dried out it is fine. I suggest you take you car to a dealer and get the seals checked.

13th Sep 2007, 10:15

Hi, the problem goes on with my girlfriends Seat Toledo 2.3 v5; when we first bought the car the windows were always steaming up, and then after leaving it in the car park airport for two weeks, all the carpets were wet and we had to pay 220 quid to get all new rubbers around the doors. Seat tried to say someone replaced the windscreen and excuse themselves out of the bill.