2015 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · AX15 UAD

A pattern of front suspension wear is the defining mechanical thread running through this Fabia's MOT history, alongside emerging brake concerns. The most recent test on 21 October 2025 returned a pass but flagged four advisories: a deteriorated rear number plate, a nearside front lower suspension arm rear bush showing wear, an offside front tyre worn on its edge, and a nearside rear service brake binding slightly. The 2025 advisories are not isolated; a 2023 test resulted in a failure with a major defect recorded for the offside front suspension arm pin or bush being excessively worn, and an advisory noting the exhaust was in poor condition at the same test. Three further tests (2020, 2021, 2022) and one in 2024 returned completely clean results with no advisories, while a 2019 test was also clean. The pattern therefore points to a car that has been largely roadworthy but has produced recurring or repeat advisories relating to front suspension components and braking, suggesting these areas warrant close scrutiny. Mileage stands at 103,773 on an 11 year old vehicle, giving an annual accumulation of roughly 9,400 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age. The test history shows continuous annual testing from 2019 through to 2025, with the single 2023 entry recorded on 11 November that year covering both a failure and a subsequent re-test on the same day. There are no extended gaps in the testing record that would suggest the vehicle has been laid up for significant periods, and the relatively consistent year on year testing implies regular use. With mileage now well into six figures on a small supermini originally equipped with relatively modest suspension and braking hardware, wear on consumables and chassis components is to be expected, particularly on the front end which carries the majority of braking and steering loads. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension should be the primary focus of any physical inspection. The 2025 advisory for the nearside front lower arm rear bush and the 2023 major failure on the offside front arm bush together indicate that the front control arm bushings are a known weak point on this vehicle. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, and feel for vagueness or knocking through the steering wheel. Visually inspect the lower arms for cracking, perishing, or oil contamination around the bushes, and check for any uneven tyre wear across the front axle, which can be a secondary symptom of worn suspension links. The 2025 advisory noted an offside front tyre worn on its edge, so pay particular attention to uneven shoulder wear on the current tyres, as this often points to geometry issues stemming from worn suspension components rather than simple alignment. The advisory for a binding nearside rear service brake should also be investigated, as a binding caliper or sticking brake mechanism will generate heat, accelerate rear brake pad and disc wear, and can lead to a dragging sensation when driving. On a test drive, confirm that the car rolls freely when coming off the throttle with no undue resistance, and after a sustained drive feel the rear wheels for excessive heat relative to the fronts. The 2023 exhaust advisory should prompt a physical check of the exhaust system for corrosion, blowing joints, or physical damage, particularly around the mounting points and flexi section, as exhaust components on a high mileage Fabia of this age are vulnerable to corrosion. Finally, verify the condition of the rear registration plate noted as deteriorated, and ensure that all tyres, including the offside front, have adequate tread depth and are free from uneven wear patterns before purchase.