Tyre advice please

[ajf]

Been looking at a 22 plate Cupra Formentor VZ2. Was going to see an M135i but got side tracked and really like this.
Very nice car.
It’s done just under 13000 miles.

The front tyres are very low on tread and I had asked about replacements.
However, I have also found there are MOT advisories for these and the rears for slight damage, cracking or perishing.
Does that seem unusual for a barely 3 year old car with low mileage?
Does it suggest it’s possibly been driven heavily etc?

I’m tempted to say it needs a full new set for me to be interested in the purchase now. Does that seem reasonable?
The current tyres are Bridgestone Turanza I believe - 245/40 R19. I noticed they are listed as reinforced (XL).
Do replacements NEED to be reinforced as well, or another brand suitable - I would only accept quality equivalents i.e Goodyear, Michelin etc.

 

[GravyMonster]

Tyre cracking is very very common these days due to different, more eco-friendly compounds being used. It's in no way a sign that the car has been driven hard at all. Check the date code on the side wall of the tyre, as it's possible the tyres may even be a month or two older than the car which would put them well over 3 years old now. I'd also keep XL tyres on it. They offer better protection against potholes from my understanding, as well as sharper handling.

Definitely get them replaced. Is this from a Seat main dealer or an indy?

 

[ShiWarrior]

i disagree with XL tyres (for a standard car)

Everything You NEED To Know About Your Tyres Sidewall - Tyre Reviews And Ratings

When Shopping For New Tyres, You've Probably Noticed A Series Of Numbers And Letters Printed On The Sidewall Of Each Tyre. These Alphanumeric Codes Provide Important Information About The Tyre's ...

www.tyrereviews.com

Extra Load (XL) Tyres​

In addition to the standard load index, some tyres feature an "Extra Load" or "XL" designation, which indicates their ability to carry a higher load capacity compared to standard tyres of the same size. XL tyres are designed with reinforced sidewalls, allowing them to support more weight while maintaining proper inflation levels. These tyres can be particularly useful for heavier vehicles, those with a high center of mavity, or when carrying heavier loads. However, it's important to note that XL tyres often require higher inflation pressures to achieve their increased load capacity. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a tyre professional to determine if XL tyres are appropriate for your specific needs and to ensure proper inflation levels.

How to Determine Your Vehicle's Load Index Requirements​

Your vehicle's load index requirements can be found in the owner's manual or on the tyre placard, which is usually located on the driver's side doorjamb, inside the fuel door, or in the glove compartment. Ensure that the tyres you choose have a load index equal to or greater than the value specified by the manufacturer. This ensures that the tyres can safely support the weight of your vehicle and its occupants.

 

[ajf]

Thanks both.
Will check the date code next time I visit, but didn’t think 3 years was particularly old for tyres. Reassured it’s not due to anything else anyway!
Probably happy to keep the rears as they are if they resist then.
It’s a main dealer car.
Not 100% sure on the required load rating but think it’s 94. The current ones appear to be 98, which are all XL regardless of manufacturer. It’s unlikely the car will ever be used fully loaded to the max weight.