2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · FP18 JFO

The most recent MOT test on 22 May 2026 at 70,654 miles passed without defects, but this followed a critical failure just one day earlier on 21 May 2026 for multiple serious issues: a broken exhaust joiner causing a major exhaust gas leak, insecure exhaust mounting, and a complete failure of both front wiper blades, alongside inoperative daytime running lamps, rear registration plate lamp, and nearside rear stop lamp. This abrupt failure suggests either deferred repairs or a sudden mechanical breakdown, as the 2025 and 2024 tests showed only advisory-level issues—no prior major defects. The trend is unstable, with a clean pass immediately preceded by a severe failure, indicating either inconsistent maintenance or a recent accumulation of neglected repairs. The vehicle’s mileage accumulation—70,654 miles over eight years—aligns closely with average usage for its age, averaging around 8,800 miles per year. There are no extreme spikes or prolonged gaps in the MOT history, though the 2023 test at 12,734 miles suggests the car may have sat unused for a period before resuming regular driving. The 2024 and 2025 tests reveal a pattern of front tyre wear and minor exhaust corrosion, but nothing to suggest aggressive driving or chronic neglect. The absence of structural advisories or corrosion-related defects in recent years implies no advanced rust or frame integrity concerns, though the 2023 note about under-trays obscuring underside components leaves some uncertainty about hidden corrosion. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent areas to inspect in person are the exhaust system—particularly the joiner and mounting points—and the front brake pads, which were flagged as thin in 2025. The repeated front tyre wear advisories (2024 and 2025) suggest alignment or suspension issues may have contributed, so checking for worn suspension bushes, coil springs, or uneven wheel camber is advisable. The 2024 mention of exhaust sleeve corrosion and a minor leak, combined with the 2026 major exhaust failure, points to potential long-term exhaust deterioration that could affect emissions and structural integrity. Finally, the failure of multiple electrical components—wiper motors, lamps, and DRLs—indicates either wiring issues or a history of deferred bulb replacements, which may signal broader electrical system neglect.