2020 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · YC20 ACV

The most recent MOT test completed on 23 June 2026 resulted in a pass, but it marks a shift in the vehicle's maintenance trend. While the previous three years of testing showed a completely clean record with no defects, the latest inspection introduced two advisories. This indicates that the vehicle is beginning to show signs of age-related wear or degradation that was not previously present. Although the car remains legally roadworthy, the transition from a clean history to one with recorded advisories suggests that the maintenance requirements are increasing and should be monitored closely. The recorded mileage of 11,229 miles over approximately six years is exceptionally low, averaging only about 1,872 miles per year. While low mileage is often perceived as a benefit, in this specific context, it suggests the vehicle has likely spent significant periods stationary or has been used exclusively for very short journeys. Mechanically, this pattern can be as detrimental as high mileage, as components such as seals, suspension bushes, and braking systems are not being regularly exercised. This lack of regular use often leads to the exact type of issues seen in the most recent MOT report. The advisory regarding the offside front brake disc being pitted or scored is a classic symptom of a vehicle that has been standing for extended periods. When a car is not driven regularly, moisture can cause surface corrosion to build up on the discs, which can then score the surface during subsequent use. During your test drive, pay close attention to the braking performance; listen for any rhythmic grinding or squealing sounds from the front end and feel for any pulsations or vibrations through the brake pedal when applying pressure. Additionally, the TPMS advisory indicates a tyre pressure monitoring issue, which could stem from a slow leak or a sensor fault. Ensure you check all tyre pressures and observe whether the warning light remains illuminated during the drive. Because of the low annual usage, you must conduct a thorough physical inspection for time-based degradation. Check the tyre sidewalls carefully for any signs of perishing or cracking, as rubber can dry rot even if the tread depth remains high. Inspect the brake calipers for signs of binding and check the underside of the vehicle for any excessive surface corrosion caused by standing moisture. It is also vital to verify the service history to confirm that oil and fluid changes have been carried out according to the manufacturer's time intervals rather than just mileage, as fluids degrade chemically over time. Finally, test the 12V battery health, as infrequent driving often leads to insufficient charging cycles and reduced battery longevity.