2020 Skoda Scala 1.5L Petrol · BD20 CFG

The overall roadworthiness status for the 2020 SKODA SCALA is poor due to a critical structural failure in the rear suspension system. The vehicle failed on 2023-07-19 at 16,460 miles, where the tester flagged a serious fluid leak in nearside rear shock absorbers and a supplementary restraint system warning lamp. This indicates that the vehicle has not undergone adequate maintenance for several years, creating a significant structural integrity risk that cannot be mitigated through simple consumption. The MOT record shows a clear trend of worsening condition, with the most recent test (2025-07-21) at 28,682 miles passing, whereas the previous test (2023-07-19) at 16,460 miles failing. This rapid depreciation suggests that the vehicle has likely been driven excessively or neglected for over two years, with the mechanical health deteriorating significantly since the last inspection. The mileage pattern reveals a distinct gap in the vehicle's operational history, likely caused by the lack of a recent MOT. The vehicle has maintained only 16,460 miles in the last two years, which is insufficient for a 2020 model at approximately 4,780 miles per year. The test on 2023-07-19 at 16,460 miles failed due to the fluid leak in shock absorbers, a mechanical failure that would not have been detected if the vehicle had been driven for only 100 days. The absence of a MOT on 2023-07-19 at 16,460 miles is a key indicator that basic upkeep was skipped, leading to the accumulation of fluid leaks and potential structural damage. The vehicle's age is also concerning; while it is only about 6 years old, it has not demonstrated the reliability required for its age class. Given the recurring faults and the lack of recent MOTs, the buyer must inspect the vehicle in person to identify and repair the fluid leak in the nearside rear shock absorbers and the supplementary restraint system warning lamp. The tester flagged binding rear brakes, which may indicate wear or corrosion, but the primary issue is the fluid leak in the shock absorbers. The vehicle requires a full suspension and brake inspection, including checking for structural corrosion on suspension bushes and coil springs. The buyer should also verify the condition of the exhaust emissions system and the integrity of the rear suspension components, as the fluid leak in the shock absorbers poses a serious risk to the vehicle's handling and safety.