2015 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · BF65 AHA

A recurring theme of front‑end wear runs through this Fabia’s MOT record – the nearside front suspension arm ball joint has been flagged for slight play in three consecutive tests, and the front brake disc has repeatedly been noted as worn, pitted or scored, escalating to a serious weakening failure in mid‑2023 before returning to advisory status by the latest test. Tyre condition on the nearside rear and earlier on the nearside front has also been highlighted as slightly damaged or cracking, while the off‑side front shock absorber showed light oil misting in two years. The most recent MOT on 6 December 2025 passed, but only with the same ball‑joint advisory and new advisories on the off‑side front brake disc and rear tyre, indicating that the underlying wear issues have persisted without yet breaching failure limits. At 85,037 mi over roughly eleven years the vehicle averages about 7,700 mi per annum, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal UK usage patterns. The MOT history shows regular annual testing with no prolonged gaps, suggesting the odometer reading is reliable and the car has not experienced periods of extreme inactivity that could mask hidden deterioration. Mechanically, a typical annual mileage implies progressive wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres and suspension components, which aligns with the repeated advisories observed on the front suspension ball joint, brake disc and tyre sidewalls. For a prospective buyer the front suspension ball joint should be examined for any clunking or steering wander, especially when turning or passing over bumps, and a measurement of the joint clearance is advisable – replacement may be required if play exceeds specification. The front brake disc, despite being recorded as not seriously weakened in the latest test, has a history of serious weakening; a visual inspection for scoring and a thickness check with a micrometer are essential, and the pads should be measured for remaining material. The off‑side front shock’s oil mist suggests a potential seal leak; feel for reduced damping on a drive over uneven surfaces and look for oil stains on the shock body. Both front tyres and the nearside rear tyre should be inspected for sidewall cracks or perishing tread, and any tyre showing damage should be replaced promptly. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection should also verify that the wheel fixing nuts on both front wheels are present and correctly torqued, given the 2022 failure for missing fixings, and confirm that the engine management light, headlamp and washer functions operate correctly after previous electronic failures. During a test drive, listen for any knocks from the front suspension, monitor the brake pedal for consistent pressure without pulsation, and note any pull to one side indicating steering or suspension issues. Addressing the front suspension ball joint, brake disc condition and tyre integrity before purchase will mitigate the most evident risk areas highlighted by the MOT history.