2016 Skoda Yeti 2.0L Diesel · YK16 AAR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 June 2025, resulted in a failure. The test identified several major defects – parking‑brake efficiency below the required level, rear‑brake imbalance across the axle, and worn rear brake discs – together with a serious suspension‑arm‑pin wear on both front wheels and a light oil mist from the nearside front shock absorber. Earlier MOTs show a pattern of deteriorating condition: the 2024‑05‑02 test also failed, chiefly for excessively worn front suspension bushings and tyres close to the legal limit, while the 2023‑04‑25 inspection only recorded a minor tyre‑perishing advisory. This progression from advisory notes to multiple major failures indicates a worsening maintenance trend and suggests that key wear items have not been addressed in a timely manner. At 69,062 mi the Skoda Yeti averages roughly 6,900 mi per year over its ten‑year life, which is within the normal UK usage envelope. The mileage does not point to excessive short‑term abuse, but the relatively low annual run‑off also implies periods of limited use or standing. Such idle periods can accelerate corrosion of brake components, promote tyre sidewall perishing, and allow moisture to settle in shock absorbers, all of which are reflected in the current MOT findings. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear braking system. The imbalance and worn discs are likely to produce a pulsating pedal, increased stopping distances, or a noticeable pull to one side under braking. Inspect the discs for scoring and measure disc thickness; replacement of both rear discs and a thorough brake‑fluid flush are advisable. The parking‑brake inefficiency suggests either a stretched cable or seized caliper pistons – a functional test of the handbrake should reveal any pull or lack of hold, and the mechanism should be adjusted or rebuilt as required. The front suspension arm pins and rear bushes are flagged as excessively worn; listen for clunking or knocking over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear, especially on the front outer edges. Replacing the front bushings and any compromised arm pins will restore proper wheel alignment and handling. Tyre condition demands immediate scrutiny. Both front tyres were recorded as being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear, while the off‑side rear tyre exhibited cracking or perishing – a typical sign of age‑related rubber degradation. Even if the tread depth appears acceptable, inspect the sidewalls for dry‑rot, bulges or cracks, and consider fitting a fresh set of tyres to ensure safety and to avoid premature wear on the suspension. Given the vehicle’s age, verify the 12‑V battery’s cranking performance, check for any corrosion on terminals, and confirm that coolant, power‑steering and transmission fluids have been changed within the last 24 months. A full visual inspection of the under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, will help identify any hidden deterioration that could affect long‑term reliability.