2004 Skoda Superb 1.9L Diesel · 843 BER

The most recent MOT, dated 10 December 2025, was a pass but carried a series of advisories covering front and rear brake disc condition, and tyre tread on both off‑side wheels. Over the last six years the vehicle has alternated between pass and fail, with the same brake‑disc wear and tyre‑tread warnings recurring each year and a major suspension‑arm bush failure recorded in 2025. While the latest result shows the car is currently road‑legal, the persistence of the same defects indicates a maintenance pattern that is not improving; rather, it is stable but requires attention to the items that have repeatedly been flagged. At 75,530 miles on a 2004 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 3,400 mi, which is well below the typical 8‑10 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity or very light use, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration even when wear mileage is modest. The limited mileage reduces the wear on drivetrain components, but it also means that rubber, seals and fluids may have aged in situ, increasing the risk of tyre perishing, rubber cracking and fluid breakdown despite the relatively low kilometre count. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the brake system and the tyres. Inspect the front and rear brake discs for scoring, glazing or excessive rust, and verify that the pads have sufficient thickness; any pulsation or shudder under braking, especially at higher speeds, would suggest disc warping or uneven pad wear. The tyre sidewalls on both off‑side wheels should be examined for edge wear, cracking, bulging or any sign of perishing, as the MOT records repeatedly flag tread close to the legal limit and a previous dangerous bulge on the nearside front tyre. During a test drive listen for clunks or looseness when cornering, which could indicate the off‑side upper suspension arm bush that has been reported as excessively worn, and check for any oil mist from the nearside rear shock absorber, a sign that the damper seals may be failing and could affect ride quality and handling. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, additional time‑based checks are advisable. Confirm the condition of the 12 V battery, looking for corrosion on terminals and testing the cranking voltage, as batteries can deteriorate even when not heavily used. Examine the chassis and under‑carriage for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and the wheel arches, since prolonged standing can promote corrosion. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluids can absorb moisture and lose effectiveness over years regardless of mileage. Finally, request a full service book and any receipts for recent tyre, brake or suspension work to ensure that the recurring advisories have been addressed and that the car will remain road‑worthy beyond the next MOT.