2017 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · FM17 XGJ

The 2017 Skoda Fabia presents a mixed maintenance record that has deteriorated notably in recent years. The most recent test on 23 June 2025 at 84,857 miles passed, but the vehicle arrived at that test with a noisy nearside front wheel bearing and light oil misting on both front shock absorbers, both of which are advisories that suggest component wear is progressing. Comparing this to the clean pass on 4 July 2023 at 44,655 miles and the similarly clean pass on 20 May 2022 at 34,733 miles, the trend is clearly worsening. The 2024 test cycle was particularly concerning, with a failure on 2 July 2024 at 67,932 miles for dangerously worn front brake pads, a significantly worn nearside front brake disc, and both front suspension arm rear bushes completely detached. The car passed the very next day on 3 July 2024 at 67,933 miles after repairs, but the underlying pattern suggests deferred maintenance that was only addressed when it became a legal requirement. The mileage accumulation tells a coherent story. Between 20 May 2022 at 34,733 miles and 4 July 2023 at 44,655 miles, the car covered 9,922 miles in roughly thirteen months. Between 4 July 2023 at 44,655 miles and 2 July 2024 at 67,932 miles, it covered 23,277 miles in just under twelve months, a sharp increase that suggests heavier use or a change in ownership pattern. The mileage then appears to have plateaued almost entirely, with the 23 June 2025 test recording 84,857 miles, meaning the car covered roughly 16,925 miles in nearly a year. There are no glaring gaps in the record that would suggest the mileage is unreliable, but the jump between mid-2023 and mid-2024 is significant and would have accelerated wear on consumables and suspension components. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the front suspension and braking system. The repeated advisories for light oil misting on both front shock absorbers across both 2024 tests and the 2025 test indicate the dampers are weeping and may need replacement if not already done. The 2024 failure for completely detached front suspension arm rear bushes is a serious structural defect that was repaired, but the buyer should check for any uneven tyre wear or clunking from the front end that could suggest the repair was incomplete or that the wishbone itself is damaged. The front brake discs and pads were replaced or repaired between the 2024 failure and pass, so the buyer should verify the condition of the current discs for scoring and check pad thickness. The nearside front wheel bearing advisory from June 2025 at 84,857 miles should be listened for on a test drive, as a failing bearing can damage the hub and ABS sensor if left unattended. The rear braking system also warrants attention. The 2024 tests flagged worn and pitted rear brake discs, and while the car passed, pitting reduces braking efficiency and accelerates pad wear. The offside rear tyre showed cracking and perishing in 2024, which raises questions about the age and condition of the remaining tyres, particularly if they are the original set from 2017. Given the car has now sat at 84,857 miles for over a year based on the latest test date, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion is advisable, as the combination of standing periods and age can lead to surface rust on brake lines, subframes, and suspension mounting points even on a relatively low-mileage vehicle.