2012 Skoda Superb 2.0L Diesel · DL12 AXV

This 2012 Skoda Superb presents a consistent pattern of requiring significant rectification work to achieve roadworthiness, rather than demonstrating a clean bill of health over recent years. Its MOT history reveals a series of failures across multiple critical systems, particularly in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The most notable period was in October 2023, when the vehicle failed its test due to dangerously worn front tyres, excessively worn front suspension arm bushes, and contaminated brake fluid, requiring multiple retests to pass. Subsequent tests in 2024 and 2025 also resulted in initial failures, addressing issues such as a faulty supplementary restraint system warning lamp, a non-working horn, and perished anti-roll bar linkage dust covers on both front upper suspension components. While the vehicle ultimately passed its most recent test on 2025-10-24, it still carried an advisory for a cracked offside rear reflector, highlighting that minor cosmetic issues can persist. The vehicle's recorded mileage of 91,326 miles over approximately fourteen years translates to an average annual accumulation of around 6,523 miles. This usage rate is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and does not suggest unusually high or low usage that would inherently point to specific mechanical issues. Instead, the observed wear and failures on suspension components, brakes, and tyres are consistent with the expected lifecycle of parts on a vehicle with this mileage, particularly if routine preventative maintenance beyond the MOT test has not been consistently applied. Given the recurring nature of suspension-related failures and advisories, a thorough inspection of all suspension components is paramount. Specifically, pay close attention to the front suspension arm bushes and anti-roll bar linkages, which have been flagged for excessive wear and perished dust covers. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, and assess for any vagueness in the steering or excessive body roll during cornering. The rear suspension arm bushes were also advised as worn in 2023, so check for similar symptoms from the rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, investigate the braking system. The 2023 failure for contaminated brake fluid is a significant concern, suggesting a potential lack of fluid changes or ingress of moisture. While this would have been rectified for the pass, it warrants checking the current brake fluid condition and the overall feel of the brake pedal. The advisories for thin rear brake pads in 2025 also indicate that these consumables were nearing replacement. Ensure the supplementary restraint system warning lamp illuminates briefly upon ignition and then extinguishes, as a fault was recorded in 2024, and verify the horn is fully functional. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to assess the current condition of these previously failed and advised components.