2023 Skoda Karoq SE Drive TSI S-A 1.5L Petrol · AG06 ADA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 9 January 2026, resulted in a Pass but issued three advisories concerning the front tyres being close to the legal tread limit and light oil misting from both front shock absorbers. With only a single MOT entry available, a definitive trend cannot be plotted, yet the presence of wear‑related advisories on a relatively new three‑year‑old vehicle suggests that the maintenance regime has been adequate to keep the car roadworthy but that consumable components are now approaching the end of their service life. At 19,870 miles the Karoq averages roughly 6,600 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a three‑year‑old family SUV. The mileage figure does not indicate any periods of prolonged inactivity that might have encouraged fluid degradation or battery sulphation, nor does it reveal any high‑stress, high‑kilometre usage that would accelerate wear on the drivetrain or braking system. Consequently, the vehicle’s wear profile should be consistent with its age rather than being driven hard. Prospective buyers should give immediate attention to the front tyres. Verify the tread depth with a calibrated gauge; any measurement below 1.6 mm or uneven wear across the tread face will confirm the advisories and necessitate replacement. Inspect the sidewalls for cracking, bulges or dry rot, especially if the car has been stored for extended periods, as age‑related perishing can occur even with low mileage. The front shock absorbers should be examined for any visible oil seepage around the mounting points and tested by applying firm pressure to the front corners; a pronounced bounce or a clunking noise on rebound indicates deteriorating damping and the likely need for replacement within the next few thousand miles. Beyond the tyres and suspension, a comprehensive pre‑purchase check should include a visual inspection of the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and a road test to listen for any shudder or pulsation when braking. Confirm the health of the 12 V battery, particularly its cranking voltage and any signs of electrolyte loss, as a three‑year‑old battery may have lost capacity if the vehicle has spent long periods idle. Verify that all fluid reservoirs—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination; calendar‑based fluid changes are advisable even if mileage is modest. Finally, request the service book and any recent dealer or independent workshop invoices to ensure that scheduled maintenance, especially the 20 000‑mile service items such as spark‑plug replacement and timing‑belt inspection (if applicable), have been performed or are imminent.