1987 Skoda 120 1.2L Petrol · E988 WYS

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2022-01-22 passed without defects, but the record reveals an inconsistent pattern of failures in the preceding years. Notably, the car failed twice in 2020—first on 2020-11-14 at 51,863 miles and again on 2020-12-24 at 51,881 miles—despite passing the July 2019 test at 30,290 miles. The lack of recorded defects in any of these tests suggests either a tester’s oversight or minor, non-critical issues that did not meet the MOT’s failure thresholds. However, the repeated failures within a short span imply potential mechanical inconsistencies that may not have been fully addressed. The final pass in January 2022, now nearly four years ago, raises concerns about whether critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers—have been properly serviced since then. The recorded mileage of 51,913 miles over nearly four decades reflects an exceptionally low annual average of around 1,331 miles, which is atypical for a vehicle of this age. The jump from 30,290 miles in July 2019 to 51,863 miles by November 2020—an increase of 21,573 miles in just 16 months—suggests either a period of heavy use or a mileage reset. The subsequent slow accumulation of just 54 miles between the two 2020 failures and another 18 miles before the 2020 pass indicates the vehicle was likely stationary for extended periods, which can accelerate corrosion and degrade suspension components. The absence of any MOT tests between January 2022 and today—nearly four years—means no official inspection has verified the vehicle’s structural integrity or critical systems since then. Given the lack of recorded defects but the repeated failures in 2020, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear calipers and wheel bearings, as these are common failure points in older Skoda models. The binding brakes noted in past tests (implied by the failures without defects) warrant close examination of the brake discs, pads, and hydraulic lines for corrosion or wear. Structural rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, should be assessed, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate deterioration. Additionally, the exhaust system—often a silent failure point—should be checked for leaks or collapsed sections, as these can go unnoticed until they affect emissions or structural integrity. The tyre tread depth and condition, while not flagged in MOTs, should be verified, as failing twice on this criterion in prior tests suggests basic upkeep may have been neglected.