2017 Skoda Citigo 1.0L Petrol · D18 CWB

The latest MOT test for this 2017 Škoda Citigo, conducted on 2026-03-27, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive deviation from the preceding tests. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories over the past three years, particularly concerning brake system wear and tyre condition. The 2024-03-26 failure—marked by a major fault in the front windscreen wiper and multiple advisories—suggests a period of either substandard maintenance or increased stress on components, potentially exacerbated by prolonged standing or heavy use. While the 2025 and 2026 tests have been clean, the persistence of thin brake pads and worn tyres—especially on the offside front and rear—indicates ongoing wear progression that warrants closer scrutiny. This trend suggests the vehicle has either been driven at higher mileage rates than average for its age or has experienced conditions that accelerate component degradation, such as frequent stops or uneven braking. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 57,419 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,380 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old car driven in mixed conditions. This figure does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected for its age, but it also does not indicate a particularly light or idled vehicle. The absence of significant mileage gaps—such as those often seen in cars parked for extended periods—implies the car has been in active use, which could explain the recurring advisories on brake systems and tyres. However, if the mileage accumulation was rapid over a short period, it might indicate higher-than-normal stress on suspension, brakes, or drivetrain components, potentially leading to premature wear on seals, bushings, or caliper mechanisms. For a vehicle of this age, the wear observed aligns more closely with moderate daily use than with either heavy or light operational profiles. Given the recurring advisories on brake pads and discs, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system during the test drive. Listen for unusual noises such as grinding, squeaking, or vibrating during braking, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the brake discs for uneven wear, pitting, or glazing, and check for binding or excessive play in the calipers, which may suggest internal wear or corrosion. Additionally, examine the brake fluid level and condition; a low or discoloured fluid level could signal leakage or overheating, both of which are critical to address before further wear accelerates. The tyre advisories—particularly the offside rear and front tyres showing signs of cracking—should be investigated further. Look for areas of uneven tread wear, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and check for sidewall damage that could compromise tyre integrity. A test drive should also include monitoring for clunking noises from the suspension, which could signal worn suspension bushes or coil springs, and checking for fluid leaks under the vehicle, especially around the brake and cooling systems. For the buyer, the vehicle’s age and mileage profile necessitate a comprehensive physical inspection beyond the MOT test. Given the recorded mileage and the advisories, focus on the brake system first, ensuring all components are functioning correctly and replacing any worn pads or discs as necessary. The tyres, particularly the offside rear and front, should be replaced if the cracking or perishing is severe, as this can compromise traction and safety. The windscreen wiper issue from the 2024 test, which failed the MOT, should be rectified before the vehicle is re-tested, as an ineffective wiper can severely impair visibility. Beyond the MOT advisories, check for signs of standing corrosion on the undercarriage, especially around wheel arches, exhaust components, and the fuel tank, as prolonged idling can accelerate rust formation. Inspect the 12-volt battery for signs of weakness or corrosion on terminals, and test its charge capacity, as older batteries may struggle with cold starts or electrical demands. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing—such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—which should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, even if the mileage is moderate. For a nine-year-old car with this level of usage, a full fluid refresh and a thorough inspection of the suspension, exhaust, and electrical systems would be prudent to ensure long-term reliability.