2017 Skoda Octavia 1.5L Petrol · AF67 XPL

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-11 resulted in a failure due to the presence of two major defects: both the near-side and offside rear coil springs have fractured, which is a critical failure under 5.3.1(b)(i) of the DVSA standards. This marks a significant deterioration from the previous clean MOT results in 2025 and 2024, where only advisories related to brake wear and tyre condition were noted. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a clear trend of worsening mechanical condition over the past year, with the spring failure being particularly alarming given its structural role in load distribution and vehicle handling. While the tyre advisories from the same test were non-major, the combination of these defects suggests the vehicle has been subjected to excessive stress, potentially from poor alignment, uneven loading, or prolonged periods of heavy use without proper suspension maintenance. The recorded mileage of 89,946 miles for a 2017 Škoda Octavia represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,994 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. However, the vehicle’s age and the recent mechanical failures indicate that it has likely accumulated wear beyond what would be expected from standard, well-maintained usage. The rapid progression of spring failure—particularly in both rear coil springs—could imply either aggressive driving conditions, neglect in previous servicing, or a pre-existing structural weakness that has now reached critical limits. The absence of major defects in earlier MOTs, aside from the brake and tyre advisories, suggests that the owner may have delayed addressing suspension issues until they became severe, a practice that can lead to compounded problems, such as misaligned wheels, uneven tyre wear, or even drivetrain strain from unstable handling. Given the recent MOT failure and the severity of the coil spring defects, the prospective buyer must prioritise an immediate inspection of the vehicle’s suspension system. The fractured springs indicate that the rear suspension geometry is compromised, which could lead to handling instability, uneven tyre wear patterns (particularly on the near-side and offside rear tyres), and potential misalignment issues that may exacerbate further wear. During a test drive, listen for persistent clunking or rattling noises from the rear axle area, especially when transitioning between bumps or during cornering, as these could indicate loose or failing suspension components. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear—particularly on the edges of the offside front tyres, which were noted as worn close to the legal limit—and inspect the rear tyres for signs of hydroplaning or excessive cupping, which may suggest spring-related misalignment. If the springs are confirmed as the cause of the failure, the buyer should expect a significant repair cost, potentially in the region of £1,500 to £3,000 for replacement, depending on labour rates and whether additional suspension components (such as bushings or dampers) require attention. For the buyer, this vehicle’s condition necessitates a thorough mechanical inspection before proceeding with purchase. Given the age and mileage, the brake components also warrant immediate attention, as the advisories from previous MOTs indicate that the front and rear brake pads and discs are approaching or have exceeded their operational lifespan. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, and check for any binding or grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could signal worn pads or warped discs. The buyer should also verify that the brake fluid is clean and at the correct level, as standing fluid can corrode brake components over time. While the tyre tread depth remains a concern, the immediate priority should be addressing the suspension and brake systems to prevent further deterioration. If the springs are beyond repair, the buyer should consider whether the vehicle is worth salvaging for its current condition or if it is better suited as a project vehicle with a clear budget for major repairs. In the interim, the buyer should ensure the vehicle is not driven on rough or uneven surfaces until the suspension is addressed, as this could exacerbate the existing damage.