2006 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Diesel · AF06 XCK

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-08-29, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The same suspension bushes, tyre conditions, and drive shaft boots that were flagged as advisory or minor faults in 2024 and earlier have reappeared with identical or more severe wording in 2025, indicating no corrective action was taken between tests. The braking system, which failed in August 2025 due to a split servo hose and deteriorated front brake lines, was not repaired before the subsequent pass — a concerning pattern that suggests the owner may have deferred critical safety work. The fact that the same suspension components were incorrectly fitted in both 2025 tests further implies a lack of proper mechanical attention. The recorded mileage of 97,735 miles at age 20 is unusually low, averaging just under 5,000 miles per year. This suggests the car has been lightly used or stored for extended periods, which can accelerate wear on suspension bushes, brake calipers, and CV joints due to lack of movement and moisture ingress. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests — roughly 3,300 miles — is modest, but the 2024 to 2025 jump of 5,000 miles coincides with the onset of multiple recurring faults, possibly indicating a sudden increase in usage or a period of neglect followed by rushed driving. The absence of MOT records between 2022 and 2023, and the lack of any major repairs documented, further supports the view that the vehicle has not been systematically maintained. A buyer must inspect the front suspension bushes and anti-roll bar joints closely, as these components have been repeatedly flagged since 2022 and remain unresolved. The nearside front CV boot is severely deteriorated and should be replaced immediately — it’s a known failure point that can lead to joint damage and eventual drivetrain loss. The rear suspension, particularly the shock absorbers, shows signs of oil leakage and reduced damping, which may indicate imminent failure. The rear tyres, consistently worn or cracked, should be replaced before the next MOT, as they are already near or at legal limits. The brake system, especially the servo hose and front brake lines, requires urgent attention — a failure here could compromise stopping distance and safety. Structural corrosion on the rear silencer casing and headlamp lens defects are minor but persistent. The registration plate deterioration is cosmetic, but the rear direction indicator discoloration may indicate water ingress or poor wiring — worth checking for moisture or corrosion in the rear light cluster. Overall, the car’s mechanical condition is fragile and dependent on recent repairs being completed. A buyer should not proceed without a full mechanical inspection, especially of the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain, as the MOT history reveals a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than proactive care.