2007 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Petrol · AF57 TKT

The most recent MOT on 21 July 2026 was passed, with a single advisory concerning light oil misting from the nearside rear shock absorber. Over the past nine years the vehicle has consistently passed its MOT, with only one failure in September 2018 that related to a faulty off‑side stop lamp and was remedied before the next test. Apart from occasional advisories about tyre perishing in 2021 and the current shock‑absorber observation, there are no recurring defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance pattern rather than a deteriorating one. The recorded 60,288 mi on a 2007 Fabia translates to roughly 3,200 mi per annum, which is well below the average UK usage for a car of this age. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related wear on components that are not mileage‑dependent, such as rubber seals, tyre sidewalls, battery plates and corrosion‑prone bodywork. The modest mileage does, however, mean that high‑wear items like the clutch, gearbox and engine internals are likely to have experienced less mechanical fatigue than on a higher‑mileage counterpart. When inspecting the vehicle, pay particular attention to the nearside rear shock absorber for any signs of oil leakage, excessive bounce, or clunking over bumps, as oil mist can be an early indicator of seal wear that may later lead to reduced damping and uneven tyre wear. The front tyres flagged in 2021 for slight cracking or perishing should be examined for tread depth, sidewall integrity and any dry rot; even if the tread appears adequate, age‑related brittleness can cause sudden failure, especially under load or at higher speeds. Verify that all exterior lighting, particularly the off‑side stop lamp that previously failed, operates correctly and that the lenses are free from moisture ingress, as faulty lamps can mask other safety issues. Given the vehicle’s age and low utilisation, a thorough age‑based inspection is advisable. Check the 12 V battery for voltage under load and inspect terminals for corrosion; a battery that has spent long periods idle may struggle to hold charge. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding, as standing can allow corrosion to seize components. Examine suspension bushings, ball joints and the remaining shock absorbers for cracks, looseness or excessive play, and look for any rust on wheel arches, sills and under‑carriage that could indicate water ingress. Finally, confirm that the service booklet shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes at appropriate intervals, and consider a full fluid change (engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil) if the last documented service exceeds 24 months, as fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven heavily.