2016 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · C29 JMC

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 April 2026 returned a Pass with no advisories or defects recorded, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory roadworthiness criteria at that time. However, evaluating the broader pattern over the last three test cycles reveals a maintenance trend that should give any prospective buyer pause. The April 2026 pass followed immediately a failure recorded on the same date for a fractured nearside front coil spring, a Major category defect which is both a structural and safety critical issue. The previous year’s history is similarly concerning, with an April 2025 pass carrying an advisory for shock absorber oil misting, and a failure on 29 April 2025 citing a binding nearside rear service brake, inability to test brake performance, and a Dangerous defect for rear brake pad material worn below 1.5 mm. A 2024 advisory further noted worn and pitted front brake discs. The pattern of repeated brake and suspension advisories evolving into outright failures suggests component wear is progressing rather than stabilising, and that the vehicle may be entering a period of more intensive maintenance requirement. The recorded mileage of 58,804 miles over approximately ten years equates to an annual average of around 5,880 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such restrained usage is consistent with a second car, short urban trips, or extended periods of standing between uses. While low mileage generally preserves engine and transmission internals, it carries its own well documented risks including corrosion of brake discs from infrequent use, binding of brake caliper pistons and handbrake mechanisms, premature ageing of the 12V battery due to chronic undercharging, and accelerated tyre sidewall perishing from age rather than wear. Standing periods can also allow moisture to accumulate in engine oil, brake fluid becomes hygroscopic over time, and coolant loses its corrosion inhibiting properties on a calendar basis regardless of distance travelled. The recurring brake related advisories and failures warrant close physical inspection prior to purchase. A thorough walkaround and test drive should focus on pulling variations under braking, any shudder or vibration through the steering wheel which may indicate the previously noted disc wear has progressed, and whether the rear caliper that was reported as binding is now operating freely, which can be assessed by feeling for uneven residual drag after a drive. Given that the vehicle was just passed with a freshly replaced coil spring, it is worth confirming whether the nearside front shock absorber, which has carried an oil misting advisory in both 2025 and 2026, has also been renewed, as a weeping shock alongside a fractured spring often indicates the strut assembly has been worked beyond its service life. On the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over bumps, pay attention to any vagueness in the front end, and check that the vehicle sits level. Finally, given the low annual mileage profile, a prospective buyer should undertake a series of age related checks that MOT testing does not fully cover. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking, perishing, or age related hardening even if the tread depth remains legal, as ten year old rubber can be significantly compromised. The battery should be load tested, as a unit that has sat partially discharged for long periods will have reduced capacity. Brake fluid should be assumed due for renewal on age grounds, coolant should be checked for condition and strength, and the cambelt and water pump replacement interval should be verified against service history, as these are time rather than mileage sensitive. Given the accumulated pattern of suspension and brake deterioration observed over the last three MOT cycles, a comprehensive independent inspection focusing on the front strut assemblies, rear brake caliper operation, and general underbody condition would be strongly advisable before purchase.