2016 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · YB66 AAV

The most recent MOT test on 4 November 2025 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. Evaluating the recent history, the vehicle has undergone a period of corrective maintenance following significant failures in late 2024 and late 2025. Specifically, the major failures involving a fractured offside rear coil spring and worn front suspension bushes appear to have been addressed to achieve the latest pass. While the maintenance trend shows the vehicle is being brought up to standard when faults arise, the history of major failures suggests a reactive approach to repairs rather than proactive component replacement. The recorded mileage of 53,018 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a low annual usage rate of approximately 5,300 miles. This level of usage is well below the UK average and implies the vehicle has likely been used for short trips or has spent considerable time stationary. Mechanically, this means that while the engine and gearbox may have relatively low internal wear, the vehicle may be more susceptible to issues related to inactivity. Low mileage does not necessarily equate to high mechanical health, particularly regarding rubber seals, suspension bushings, and fluid integrity. During your test drive, you should pay close attention to the front suspension and steering response. Listen for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn suspension bushes or failing dampers. Given the previous advisory regarding a binding offside rear brake, check for any pulling to one side under braking or a noticeable shudder, which could indicate unevenly worn discs or a sticking caliper. You should also monitor the tyre condition closely; while the recent MOT was clean, the history of worn edges and cuts suggests the vehicle may require frequent tyre monitoring to ensure tread depth and sidewall integrity remain within legal limits. Due to the low annual mileage, you must conduct a physical inspection for age-related degradation. Check the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which occurs as rubber oxidises over time regardless of tread depth. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for any signs of corrosion on the exhaust system or structural components, as vehicles that sit idle can suffer from moisture retention. It is also vital to verify the service book for time-based maintenance intervals, such as brake fluid and coolant changes, which are essential for preventing internal degradation. Finally, ensure the 12V battery is in good health, as low-usage vehicles are frequently subject to slow discharge and electrical instability.