2018 Skoda Kodiaq 2.0L Diesel · FV18 ABF

The 2018 Skoda Kodiaq most recently passed its MOT test on 21 April 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a pattern of clean test outcomes stretching back to 2022. Across the five recorded tests, the only items flagged were two advisories in April 2023 relating to slight cracking in the tread area of the nearside front and nearside rear tyres, neither of which has reappeared in subsequent tests. This suggests that any tyres fitted at that time were replaced promptly and that the vehicle has otherwise been maintained to a satisfactory roadworthy standard, with no progressive deterioration visible across the inspection history. With 37,426 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Kodiaq averages around 4,678 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and class. Such modest annual mileage typically indicates a mix of light everyday use and periods of standing, the latter being particularly relevant to a large family SUV that may not be driven daily. While low mileage generally preserves major mechanical components such as the engine, gearbox and drivetrain, it does mean that consumables and time-sensitive items can degrade through age rather than use. There are no gaps or sudden jumps in the recorded mileage that would suggest inconsistent record-keeping or clock irregularities, lending confidence to the odometer reading. Given the low annual mileage and the clean MOT record, a prospective buyer should focus on age-related deterioration rather than wear from heavy use. Tyres older than five years should be inspected closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds harden and deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and the advisory history from 2023 underscores this point. Brake discs and calipers are prone to surface corrosion and seizing when a vehicle stands for extended periods, so the caliper slides should be checked for free movement and the discs examined for uneven rust build-up or lipping that could cause shudder under braking. The 12V battery is another critical concern, as low-use vehicles frequently suffer from reduced state of charge and shortened service life; a load test or voltage check is advisable, particularly if the original battery has not been replaced within the last three to four years. Fluids and under-bonnet components deserve equal attention, as oil, coolant and brake fluid all degrade over time irrespective of mileage. Brake fluid in particular absorbs moisture and should typically be renewed every two years regardless of use, so confirmation of the last service date and fluid replacement is worthwhile. The timing chain or belt service interval, along with the DSG or automatic gearbox fluid change if applicable, should be verified against the manufacturer schedule based on calendar years rather than miles. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clunks from the front MacPherson struts or rear multi-link set-up, which can suffer from perished bushes and top mount bearings on low-mileage vehicles, and pay attention to any steering vagueness, uneven tyre wear across the axle, or brake binding that would suggest prolonged standing has taken its toll on moving components.