2021 Skoda Karoq SE Drive TDI SCR 2.0L Diesel · DW53 KAW

A pair of suspension arm bush advisories recorded at the February 2024 test represent the only flagged mechanical concerns in an otherwise unblemished MOT history, with the vehicle passing cleanly at both the February 2025 and January 2026 tests without any fresh defects or advisories. The fact that those lower suspension arm rear bushes were merely advisory at the time of the 2024 examination means they were worn but still within permissible tolerance, with no excessive movement recorded. As a Karoq of this generation reaches mid-life in 2026, the absence of any repeat advisories on the suspension, brakes, or steering across two subsequent tests is a positive indicator, though the underlying deterioration of those bushes will have continued since they were first noted, making them the single most relevant component to scrutinise at the point of purchase. With 92,097 miles accumulated over approximately five years, this Karq is working at a notably high annual rate of around 18,400 miles per year, well above the typical private vehicle average. Consistent annual MOT testing without any gaps suggests the car has been in regular use rather than laid up, and the absence of long stationary periods reduces the risk of corrosion undertraps, seized brakes, and deteriorated coolant or brake fluid. The high mileage does, however, place proportionally greater demand on consumables such as brake pads and discs, clutch components, tyres, and the timing belt service interval, so confirming evidence of recent major servicing will be important when assessing remaining mechanical life. Given the advisories recorded on the nearside front and offside rear lower suspension arm rear bushes, particular attention should be paid to the suspension during a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for any vagueness or delay in steering response on uneven road surfaces, which can indicate progressed wear in those rear bushes. On a lift or with the wheels unweighted, physically check the lower control arms for splitting, cracking, or excessive play in the inner and outer bush mountings, as bushes flagged in 2024 will have aged a further two years of high-mileage use by the time of inspection. The Karoq TDI SCR is also known for requiring a timing belt replacement at manufacturer-specified intervals, and at this mileage the diesel particulate filter, dual-mass flywheel, and turbocharger are all entering territory where wear-related faults can surface, so evidence of recent or imminent major servicing is essential. On the road, monitor for any black smoke under hard acceleration, hesitation, or uneven idle which could indicate DPF or turbo concerns, and inspect the engine bay and undertray for oil residue around the cam chain area and turbo pipework. Finally, given the high annual mileage, check that all four tyres are a matching quality brand with reasonable remaining tread depth, and inspect the brake discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge, as worn discs paired with fresh pads are a common indicator that the braking system is approaching the end of its service life.