2018 Skoda Karoq 1.5L Petrol · DF18 HTY

The most recent MOT test for the 2018 Škoda Karoq was conducted on 2026-06-15 and resulted in a clean pass, with no recorded defects. This follows a consistent pattern of annual MOT approvals from 2021 through 2025, indicating a stable maintenance history with no recurring failures or persistent issues. However, the vehicle’s first recorded failure occurred in 2022, where a dangerous defect was identified for the near-side front tyre having a tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, alongside an advisory for offside front tyre wear nearing the legal limit. This suggests that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness in most areas, there was a critical oversight in tyre management at that time, which could have been mitigated with proactive tyre rotation and replacement before the MOT test. The recorded mileage of 85,253 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle represents an average annual usage of approximately 10,657 miles, which is within the expected range for this age group. The consistency of mileage accumulation over the years implies regular, moderate use rather than either light or heavy driving conditions. However, the presence of a single MOT failure in 2022—particularly for tyres—could indicate that the vehicle was either driven at a higher rate than usual during that period or that tyre maintenance was neglected. Tyres are particularly susceptible to uneven wear and premature failure when not rotated or balanced regularly, especially if the vehicle spends extended periods stationary, leading to edge wear or central wear patterns. This highlights the importance of verifying tyre history and ensuring they are within safe limits before purchase. Given the clean MOT history since 2022 and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address potential wear and tear issues that may not have been flagged by the DVSA. Focus initially on the tyres, as the 2022 failure underscores their critical importance. Check the tread depth across all four tyres, ensuring no section dips below 3mm, and inspect for signs of uneven wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Additionally, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, a common issue in older vehicles due to exposure to UV radiation and ozone, which can compromise tyre integrity. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the tyres, such as squealing or vibration, which may signal internal damage or improper installation. Beyond tyres, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s suspension and steering components, as these often show wear in high-mileage vehicles. Inspect the front and rear suspension bushes, coil springs, and struts for signs of stiffness, cracks, or excessive play, which can lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven roads. Pay particular attention to the steering wheel for any binding or resistance, which may indicate binding calipers, worn rack-and-pinion components, or misaligned wheels. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the brakes, exhaust, and engine bay, as these can signal failing seals or gaskets. For the brakes, visually inspect the discs and pads for signs of excessive wear, glazing, or corrosion, and listen for grinding or squeaking noises during braking. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider verifying the service history for fluid replacements, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these degrade over time even with regular use. A well-maintained fluid schedule, ideally every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or annually, is essential for longevity. Additionally, check the 12V battery health, as older vehicles may experience reduced power delivery or starting issues due to internal corrosion or battery age.