2016 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · OE16 AAX

The Skoda Yeti passed its most recent MOT test on 26 February 2026, though four advisories were recorded at the same time. Examining the wider DVSA history, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual tests since 2022, with the earlier examinations recording no defects at all. The appearance of multiple advisories on the latest certificate therefore suggests the first emerging signs of wear rather than a long-standing deterioration, though the accumulation of four items in a single test warrants attention. Overall, the maintenance trend remains broadly stable but is beginning to show age-related decline on consumable items, which is consistent with a ten-year-old vehicle approaching the midpoint of its typical service life. With recorded mileage of 40,916 over a ten-year registration period, the Yeti has covered an average of around 4,092 miles annually, which is considerably below the national average and indicative of predominantly light or occasional use. Such low annual mileage typically results in less wear on internal drivetrain and engine components, but it does carry its own set of mechanical considerations. Vehicles that stand for extended periods are susceptible to brake disc corrosion, binding or seized calipers, deterioration of brake fluid through moisture absorption, and degradation of rubber components such as suspension bushes and drive shaft boots due to lack of regular movement and heat cycling. The advisories from the 2026 MOT merit specific attention. The offside rear and nearside service brake binding issues, although not deemed excessive by the MOT inspector, suggest the brake caliper slide pins or piston mechanisms may be beginning to seize, a condition exacerbated by infrequent use and the resulting corrosion on the brake rotors. During a test drive, listen for any rubbing noises from the wheels, notice if the vehicle pulls to one side under light braking, and feel for any roughness or juddering through the brake pedal. The nearside front tyre was noted as worn close to the legal limit on its edge, and the offside front tyre as worn low in the centre of the tread; this uneven wear pattern can indicate tracking misalignment, suspension geometry issues, or inconsistent tyre pressures. When inspecting the vehicle, check all four tyres for age-related sidewall perishing and cracking, as tyres over five years old can degrade even with adequate tread depth, and verify that the sidewall DOT date code indicates manufacture within the last six years. Beyond the items flagged on the MOT, a prospective buyer should undertake several age- and mileage-appropriate checks. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at the mounting points and silencer joints, as Yeti exhausts are known to suffer from internal and external corrosion on older examples. Verify the condition and age of the 12V battery, as a ten-year-old original unit is well past its expected service life and may fail without warning, particularly given the low annual mileage which prevents full charging cycles. Examine the underside of the vehicle for any signs of fluid leaks, paying particular attention to the sump, gearbox, and coolant expansion tank. Confirm that the service history demonstrates timely replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and cambelt, as these are time-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive items. Finally, on a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes or top mounts, and verify smooth operation of all electrical functions including the dual-zone climate control and the rear parking sensors, which are common failure points on the Yeti.