2013 Skoda Octavia 2.0L Diesel · AL09 COX

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-03-24, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The same nearside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover defect reappeared in 2026 after being flagged in 2024, indicating a persistent mechanical issue that has not been addressed. Tyre wear has also escalated from a single rear tyre failure in 2025 to both rear tyres being near or at legal limit in 2026, with perishing noted — a sign of neglect or inadequate rotation and alignment checks. The 2025 failure, which included front tyre tread below legal depth, suggests a pattern of deferred tyre maintenance that has now carried into the current year. Mileage progression shows a steady annual average of around 8,156 miles over 13 years, which is within normal expectations for a vehicle of this age. The jump from 91,729 miles in February 2024 to 98,187 miles in February 2025 — roughly 6,500 miles in 12 months — is slightly above average but not alarming. The 2026 test at 106,029 miles confirms continued use without major gaps in MOT history, suggesting the owner has maintained the vehicle’s legal status, even if not its mechanical condition. The absence of any MOT failures between 2023 and 2024, and the single failure in 2025, indicates a recent deterioration rather than long-term neglect. Buyers should inspect the front anti-roll bar linkage components closely, as the dust cover failure has recurred and may indicate underlying bushing or joint wear that could lead to handling instability. The rear tyres, both worn to the legal limit and showing perishing, require immediate replacement and should be accompanied by a full wheel alignment check to prevent uneven wear. The front tyres, particularly the offside, should be measured for tread depth and inspected for uneven wear patterns that may point to suspension misalignment or worn control arms. Brake calipers and discs should also be checked for binding or uneven wear, as the rear suspension components flagged in 2026 may be linked to brake performance. Structural integrity should not be overlooked — the repeated suspension-related defects suggest potential wear in bushes, coil springs, or ball joints. A thorough undercarriage inspection for rust, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, is advisable. The vehicle’s age and mileage are not excessive, but the pattern of recurring faults implies that the previous owner may have deferred maintenance on critical safety components. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist mechanic is strongly recommended to verify the condition of the suspension, brakes, and tyre fitment before committing to purchase.