2017 Skoda Octavia 2.0L Diesel · BJ17 AEK

The 2017 Skoda Octavia is not presently roadworthy. The June 30, 2026 MOT at 200,474 miles passed, but the June 29, 2026 test at 200,470 miles failed on the same mileage because the off‑side track‑rod end ball joint showed excessive play and the near‑side steering‑rack inner joint exhibited play, while an oil leak was recorded as not excessive. These recurring faults indicate a persistent mechanical trend rather than improvement. The vehicle has covered 200,474 miles in nine years, averaging about 22,275 miles per year, which is high for its age. Mileage accumulation was relatively modest until June 2024, when the reading was 125,916 miles; from that point the annual mileage rose sharply, reaching 182,147 miles by December 2025 (an increase of 56,231 miles in 1.5 years) and only adding two miles by the June 2026 test, suggesting long periods of inactivity after the earlier high‑usage phase. A buyer should therefore inspect the steering linkage thoroughly, checking for play in the inner joint of the rack and the condition of the track‑rod end ball joint, and verify that the front shock absorbers are free of oil misting and that the front undertray fixings are secure. Examination of the tyres, especially the off‑side front inner tyre noted as worn close to the legal limit, and a review of wheel alignment, given the repeated headlamp aim failures, are essential. Any signs of structural rust on the chassis rails or undertray should also be assessed, as should the condition of the seat‑belt webbing, which has shown progressive weakening in earlier tests. Given the history of recurring suspension and steering defects, the presence of an ongoing oil leak, and the high mileage relative to age, the vehicle warrants a detailed physical inspection before any purchase decision is made.