2020 Skoda Karoq 1.5L Petrol · FN20 NVP

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT following a pass on 6 March 2026, but the recent history shows a worsening trend in mechanical maintenance. While the 2024 and 2023 tests showed no defects, the 2025 and 2026 records indicate emerging issues with the suspension and braking systems. The failure on 5 March 2026, just one day before the successful retest, highlights a lack of proactive maintenance, as the vehicle failed on multiple critical items including brake pad thickness, disc condition, and an inoperative engine malfunction indicator lamp. The mileage profile suggests low annual usage, averaging approximately 4,886 miles per year. The vehicle progressed from 8,749 miles in March 2023 to 29,318 miles in March 2026. This low-mileage pattern can sometimes lead to component issues due to infrequent use, such as the brake wear or suspension seepage noted in the records. The jump from 15,791 miles in 2024 to 23,341 miles in 2025, and subsequently to 29,318 miles in 2026, shows a consistent but relatively light driving pattern. A prospective buyer must focus on the front suspension components. The March 2025 test flagged light oil misting on both front shock absorbers, a condition that persisted into the March 2026 test as slight oil misting on both the nearside and offside front struts. While this was not a failure point, it indicates a developing leak that will eventually require strut replacement. The tester should also verify that the engine management light functions correctly, given the failure on 5 March 2026 regarding the MIL being inoperative or indicating a malfunction. The braking system requires immediate physical verification. The March 2026 failure specifically identified thin rear brake pads and a seriously weakened, worn, or warped nearside rear brake disc. Although these were rectified to achieve the pass, the presence of these faults suggests that consumable maintenance may have been neglected until a formal inspection forced the issue. Inspect the rear discs and pads for uneven wear or signs of recent replacement to ensure the repair was comprehensive.