2007 Skoda Roomster 1.4L Diesel · AF57 WSZ

The most recent MOT test on the 2007 Škoda Roomster, conducted on 2025-07-30, resulted in a pass despite several advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable wear and minor issues requiring attention. The vehicle’s MOT history reflects a pattern of recurring advisories rather than a consistent deterioration, with the most recent test showing persistent problems such as corrosion on the offside front brake hose ferrule, worn and pitted brake discs on both rear axles, and excessive wear on the near-side rear and offside front tyres nearing legal limits. The earlier failure in 2025-05-14 was primarily due to non-mechanical faults—specifically, faulty lighting and a non-functional passenger door—which were rectified before the subsequent tests. While the presence of advisories suggests some wear progression, the absence of major failures or critical defects over the past five years indicates a generally stable maintenance profile, though the owner should address the listed issues promptly to prevent further degradation. The recorded mileage of 91,360 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,808 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of inactivity, or the vehicle being kept in a stationary state, which accelerates corrosion and fluid degradation. The suspension components, brake systems, and tyres are particularly vulnerable to standing corrosion and uneven wear when a vehicle is not driven regularly. For instance, the advisories regarding corroded rear coil springs and the potential binding of rear suspension bushes could be exacerbated by prolonged idleness, leading to premature failure if not serviced. Additionally, the brake discs showing pitted but not seriously weakened conditions may indicate prolonged braking without adequate maintenance, which could worsen over time if not addressed. Before proceeding with purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the Škoda Roomster to identify any hidden issues exacerbated by its low-mileage, high-age profile. Focus on the suspension system, checking for signs of corrosion on the coil springs, bushings, and control arms, as well as any unusual clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn or binding components. The brake system warrants close attention, particularly the rear discs and hoses, as the advisories suggest existing wear. Listen for a grinding or squealing sound when applying brakes, which could indicate thin pads or warped discs, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the offside front and near-side rear tyres, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, cracks, or bulges, as ageing rubber can become brittle and prone to failure, even at low mileage. The vehicle’s lighting system should be tested thoroughly, as the 2025 failure highlighted non-functional lamps, which could recur if not repaired. The passenger door mechanism and any child seat restrictions should also be verified, as these were also issues in prior MOTs. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age and potential prolonged idleness, check the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluids for contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can become corrosive or lose effectiveness over time. A 12V battery health check is essential, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as standing corrosion can drain the battery or damage the alternator. Finally, verify the service history, particularly for fluid changes, brake servicing, and suspension component replacements, as a lack of records may indicate neglect. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the buyer should still prioritise checking for signs of excessive wear on the drivetrain, exhaust system, and fuel system components, as these can accumulate over time even with moderate mileage.