2014 Skoda Yeti 1.6L Diesel · FP64 DVR

The most recent MOT test on the 2014 Škoda Yeti occurred on 2025-11-05, resulting in a failure due to a non-working near-side rear stop lamp alongside persistent advisories related to suspension corrosion and minor oil leaks. Despite this failure, the vehicle’s MOT history over the preceding five years shows a pattern of recurring advisories rather than a clear deterioration trend. While the front sub-frame corrosion and CV joint boot deterioration were noted in prior tests, the latest failure suggests the stop lamp issue may have been overlooked or the vehicle was driven without addressing the suspension concerns, which could indicate a lack of proactive maintenance. The advisories on tyre wear and wheel bearing noise also persist, indicating ongoing wear and tear that requires attention to prevent further degradation or safety risks. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 193,942 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 16,162 miles per year, which is unusually high for a 12-year-old car. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components like suspension bushes, brake systems, and drivetrain seals, particularly when combined with the observed corrosion and oil leaks. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, potentially leading to accelerated stress on the suspension, tyres, and exhaust system. This pattern of high mileage without corresponding service intervals could mean that consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems may have reached or exceeded their operational lifespan sooner than expected. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and potential for corrosion-related issues. Visually check the front sub-frame and rear suspension components for signs of rust or structural weakening, particularly around the lower control arms and strut mounts. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles from the suspension, which could indicate failing bushes or broken mounts, and monitor for uneven tyre wear patterns that may suggest misalignment or suspension play. The near-side rear wheel bearing noise from previous tests suggests further investigation is warranted—look for excessive play or grinding when turning corners, and check for vibration at higher speeds. The oil leak advisories may stem from worn seals around the oil pan or valve cover, so inspect under the vehicle for any dark oil stains and verify fluid levels post-drive. Additionally, the brake system should be thoroughly examined. Given the high mileage and potential standing time, check for corrosion on brake discs, particularly near the callipers, which could lead to binding or reduced braking efficiency. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or fluid degradation, as standing brake fluid can absorb moisture and corrode the system over time. The CV joint boot deterioration from 2022 highlights the importance of addressing drivetrain seals promptly to prevent leaks and increased wear. Finally, verify the near-side rear stop lamp functionality during the test drive, as this failure is a safety-critical issue that must be resolved before the vehicle is roadworthy. For the tyres, despite the advisories on wear close to legal limits, consider replacing them if the inner edges show significant edge wear, as this can indicate alignment or suspension issues that may worsen with continued use. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, a comprehensive fluid service—including brake fluid, differential and transmission fluids—should be scheduled to address calendar-based degradation.