2014 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · DA14 AAE

The 1.2 TSI petrol unit in this Yeti is capable of around 44-47 mpg on a combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of around 119 g/km, which keeps it in VED Band C and means an annual road tax of around £35 (standard rate). Insurance sits in group 13-14 depending on trim, which is competitive for a family SUV of this size and makes it a relatively affordable car to run day-to-day.

Estimated annual running costs of £1,400-£1,700 should cover fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance. The 1.2 TSI is generally cheaper to maintain than the 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TDI alternatives, though timing chain replacement (if needed) can run to £500-£800. Budget for replacement tyres roughly every 3-4 years given the light use pattern and possible rubber degradation from age rather than wear.

The 2022 MOT recorded multiple tyre defects, including cracking, perishing, and two tyres at or below the legal tread limit. Given that tyres degrade with age as well as mileage, physically inspect the production date codes on any fitted tyres (look for a DOT stamp on the sidewall) and reject any that are over 6 years old regardless of tread depth. The Yeti ranks tyre issues as its top MOT failure category in the 77,123-vehicle dataset, so this is the model-wide pattern as well as this car's specific history.

Beyond tyres, inspect the front suspension arms, bushes, and drop links — the second and third most common Yeti MOT failures nationally. On the 1.2 TSI engine, check for oil leaks around the cam chain tensioner, listen for timing chain rattle on cold start, and verify there are no stored misfire codes. Examine the rear door hinges and tailgate struts, and confirm all electrics function including the climate control, which is a known weak point. Finally, check for water ingress in the boot and under the rear seats, a recurring Yeti complaint.