2016 Skoda Yeti 1.4L Petrol · CP65 DXF

A consistent pattern of advisory items has emerged over the past five MOT tests for this Skoda Yeti, with two components repeatedly flagged: the offside front shock absorber and the rear brake discs. Light oil misting on the offside front damper has been recorded at every test since 2021, indicating a slow seep from the seal that, while not yet at failure threshold, has remained unchanged across three consecutive years and warrants close physical inspection for any progression to a visible wet residue or streaking down the body. The rear brake discs have likewise drawn advisories for corrosion on their outer edges at each test since 2021, escalating from "slight corrosion" in 2021 to "corroded" by 2024, which points to a gradual worsening of surface oxidation consistent with age and exposure. The most recent test on 8 January 2026 returned a clean pass with no advisories, suggesting the rear discs may have been renewed in the interim, though the persistent shock absorber misting across the record indicates an item that has neither deteriorated to failure nor resolved itself and remains a latent maintenance point. With approximately 66,103 miles recorded over ten years, this Yeti has averaged roughly 6,610 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of its age. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, with annual MOTs recorded consistently from 2018 through 2026, and mileage accumulation appears steady rather than concentrated in any short burst. This kind of moderate, regular use generally keeps seals, fluids, and suspension components working without long periods of stagnation, though it also means that consumable wear such as bushes, brake components, and exhaust mountings will have progressed in line with the mileage. For a prospective buyer, the offside front shock absorber should be a primary focus during inspection. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps or potholes, and pay attention to whether the vehicle settles unevenly after cornering or shows excessive body roll. The damper itself should be examined for fresh oil residue or a greasy film along the body, beyond the light misting already documented, as this would indicate active seal failure requiring replacement. Given that the misting has been present for at least five years without escalating to a failure, a fluid change of the front struts may be a foreseeable future cost. The rear brake discs, given their repeated advisory for corrosion, merit a thorough physical check by elevating the vehicle or inspecting through the wheel apertures. Heavy pitting, deep grooving, or lipping beyond normal wear would suggest the discs are approaching the minimum thickness and may soon require replacement, particularly if accompanied by brake pedal pulsation or vibration under heavy braking. The front discs, while not flagged in the advisories, should still be examined as they share similar age and mileage exposure. It would also be prudent to check the rear brake calipers for smooth operation, as corroded disc edges can sometimes indicate seized slider mechanisms that cause uneven pad wear, a concern best identified through careful inspection and a test drive that includes moderate brake applications to detect any pulling to one side.