2018 Skoda Citigo 1.0L Petrol · BO53 BAB

The vehicle exhibits a recurring mechanical stress pattern centered on the braking system, specifically affecting the rear service brakes and front brake discs, which has culminated in a dangerous failure in June 2025 and persistent advisory notes in subsequent tests. The most recent inspection on 15 June 2026 recorded a pass, yet it flagged that the offside front service brake is fluctuating and the nearside rear service brake is binding, symptoms that echo the major failure recorded just two months prior on 3 June 2025. This trend indicates that the braking components, particularly the rear calipers and associated linkages, are experiencing wear that compromises the efficiency of the service brakes, a concern that must be addressed before the vehicle can be considered roadworthy. Recorded at 53,912 miles as of today, the vehicle has accumulated approximately 6,739 miles annually over its eight-year lifespan, which represents a standard usage pattern for a small city car. The annual testing intervals from 2021 through 2026 show no significant gaps in road use, suggesting consistent daily driving rather than periods of long-term inactivity. The mileage increase between the 2025 and 2026 tests is roughly 7,800 miles, which is a substantial annual accumulation that aligns with the accelerated wear observed on the front brake discs and the persistent binding in the rear service brakes. This usage level means that consumable components such as tyres, brake pads, and discs have been subjected to the expected wear rates for a vehicle of this age and size. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the braking system, specifically focusing on the rear nearside caliper, which has shown excessive binding in the last two tests. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises when braking and observe if the brake pedal feels spongy or requires extra travel to stop the vehicle, as these are symptoms of binding service brakes. The advisory notes from 2023 regarding worn front brake discs suggest that the front braking components may also require attention soon, particularly if the vehicle has been driven aggressively or in stop-start traffic. Additionally, the 2022 record noted perishing and cracking in all four tyres; while the 2025 test passed on tyres, the current legal tread depth must be verified immediately, and the condition of the tyre sidewalls should be checked for structural integrity, as perished rubber can lead to sudden tyre failure.