2015 SKODA RAPID1.6L DIESEL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a worsening condition regarding suspension and wheel components. The most recent test in October 2025 at 44,777 miles resulted in an initial failure due to serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers. This represents a significant degradation from the October 2024 test at 42,113 miles, where the same components only showed light misting. While the car passed upon retest, the failure indicates that the suspension system required immediate replacement to maintain safety standards. The mileage profile is notably low for an eleven-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,000 miles per year. The data shows consistent usage between 37,070 miles in late 2022 and 44,777 miles in 2025. However, low mileage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber-based components. The presence of perishing cracking on the nearside rear tyre in 2025 suggests the car may have sat for long periods, causing the rubber to rot despite the low distance driven. A buyer must inspect the front suspension thoroughly to ensure the shock absorbers were replaced with quality parts and that no further leaks exist. The recurring issues with uneven tyre wear and stepped tread noted in 2023 and continuing through to 2025 suggest a persistent alignment problem or worn suspension bushes elsewhere. Additionally, the distorted nearside rear inner road wheel flagged in the 2025 test is a structural defect in the rim that should be checked for lateral run or potential failure. The brakes also require attention, as the nearside rear disc was already pitted and scored in 2023, which indicates a lack of regular use or corrosion of the braking assembly.