2012 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · BA10 ALS

The most recent MOT test on the 2012 Škoda Fabia, conducted on 2026-05-13, resulted in a passing outcome with two advisories: front brake pads are approaching their legal minimum thickness, and the front tyres are worn close to the legal limit or show excessive edge wear, which may indicate uneven loading or directional drift. While this is a passing result, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring suspension-related issues, particularly with the front suspension arms and their bushings. The 2023 and 2022 MOTs recorded worn but not excessive movement suspension bushes, while the 2025 test identified major failures in both near- and offside front suspension arm pins or bushings, suggesting progressive wear that could compromise ride quality and alignment stability. Although the 2024 and 2021 tests were clean, the persistence of these advisories—especially the near-major failures in 2025—indicates that the suspension system is under significant stress, likely due to either excessive load cycles or substandard maintenance. This trend suggests that while the vehicle may currently pass the MOT, the suspension components are nearing critical failure points, warranting immediate attention to prevent potential roadside breakdowns or safety hazards. The recorded mileage of 44,910 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 3,208 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle was stored in a garage or exposed to environmental conditions that accelerate wear from standing. However, the suspension failures recorded in the MOT history—especially the major defects in 2025—could imply that the vehicle was subjected to higher-than-expected loads or improper handling, despite the low mileage. This discrepancy raises concerns about whether the suspension components have been subjected to excessive stress over time, potentially accelerating wear beyond what would be expected from typical usage. Additionally, the advisories from 2021 and 2022 regarding worn suspension bushes suggest that the vehicle may have been driven with compromised components, further complicating the maintenance timeline. Given the recurring suspension advisories and major failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the control arms, bushings, and mounting points. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front end, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth surfaces, as this may indicate loose or worn suspension components. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal misalignment caused by failing suspension geometry, and inspect the brake system for signs of excessive pedal travel or vibration, which may suggest worn brake pads or warped discs. Additionally, visually inspect the suspension for signs of oil leaks around the bushings or arms, as this can accelerate wear. Immediate attention to the suspension should include replacing the worn bushings and potentially the control arms, as these failures could lead to further alignment and handling issues, compromising both safety and ride comfort. For the brake system, the advisories from the 2026 MOT regarding thin brake pads necessitate a close inspection of the front brake pads and discs. The pads should be measured for remaining thickness, with a minimum of 1.5mm being the legal limit. If they are below this threshold, replacement is essential before the vehicle fails a subsequent MOT. Listen for any grinding or squealing noises during braking, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs, a sign of severe wear or misalignment. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, cracking, or excessive glazing, which can cause brake shudder or reduced stopping power. The tyres should also be checked for sidewall damage or cracking, which can occur from prolonged storage or age-related degradation, even if the tread depth is legal. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, consider verifying the service history for fluid servicing, particularly the brake fluid, which should be replaced every two years or 60,000 miles to prevent corrosion and loss of effectiveness. Additionally, check the 12V battery health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation or weak terminals, which may require a recharge or replacement.