2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · ND18 NGV

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Škoda Fabia, conducted on 2026-06-25, resulted in a passing grade with a single advisory pertaining to the nearside rear outer tyre exhibiting wear close to the legal limit and being worn on the edge. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past three years, with no failures and only minor advisories recorded in prior tests. The presence of recurring advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear and suspension components—suggests a maintenance trend that has not worsened significantly, though the vehicle’s wear characteristics indicate it has reached or approached critical thresholds in certain areas. The absence of major failures or structural defects in the MOT history suggests the vehicle is mechanically sound but requires careful attention to the noted advisories to avoid potential roadside issues or reduced longevity. The recorded mileage of 74,108 miles for a vehicle of this age represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,264 miles per year, which is typical for a car of its class. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally low—suggesting prolonged idling or light use—nor exceptionally high—indicating aggressive driving or high demand. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation over the past eight years implies steady, regular use rather than abrupt changes in driving habits. From a mechanical standpoint, this profile suggests wear progression in consumables like tyres, suspension components, and potentially drivetrain elements, though the absence of rapid mileage spikes does not necessarily mitigate the need for proactive checks on components that have already shown signs of wear, such as the shock absorbers and tyres. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise examining the tyres for signs of further degradation beyond the noted advisories. The nearside rear outer tyre’s wear close to the legal limit warrants immediate attention, as excessive edge wear can indicate alignment or camber issues, which may worsen with continued use. On a test drive, listen for uneven tyre noise or vibrations, which could signal misalignment or incorrect tyre pressure. The light misting of oil in the front and rear shock absorbers, particularly the offside front unit, is a critical advisory. This misting suggests internal leakage, which can lead to reduced damping efficiency and premature failure. Inspect the shocks for softness when compressing them manually or by driving over bumps; a clunking or loss of rebound control upon impact is a clear symptom. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks around the shock absorber mounts or lower control arms, as this may confirm the source of the oil loss. Beyond the MOT advisories, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive inspection of the suspension and steering components. The near-side front suspension arm pin or bush showing worn but not excessive movement may require closer inspection for signs of excessive play or binding, which could lead to uneven tyre wear or steering instability. On the test drive, feel for any excessive play in the steering wheel or steering wheel torque when turning, which could indicate worn steering components or misaligned suspension. The near-side rear tyre’s cracking or perishing is another advisory that should be addressed promptly, as sidewall damage can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. Visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for any cracks, delamination, or dry rot, and check for uneven wear patterns that could suggest underlying alignment or suspension issues. For the offside rear tyre, while the perishing advisory is less severe, it still merits attention to prevent further deterioration. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, particularly around terminals, as standing for extended periods can accelerate battery degradation. Additionally, verify that the service book records reflect the scheduled fluid top-ups, especially for the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If no service history is available, a professional fluid analysis would be prudent to assess their condition.