2012 Skoda Yeti 2.0L Diesel · FX12 NEN

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing frequency of mechanical failures and structural concerns. While the most recent test on 7 July 2026 at 98,342 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle failed just one day prior due to multiple significant issues. The tester flagged excessive wear in both front suspension arm ball joints and excessive play in the offside front track rod end. The requirement to heat both track rod ends suggests a recent attempt to rectify play rather than a full component replacement. The mileage accumulation remains consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,000 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 20,438 miles in March 2015 to the current 98,342 miles in July 2026. This pattern indicates regular use rather than long periods of stationary storage. The lack of defects between 2015 and 2021 suggests a period of reliable operation, but the frequency of failures has escalated significantly since 2022. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the rear sub-frame. This component has been flagged for corrosion in the July 2025 test at 91,349 miles and again in the July 2026 test at 98,342 miles. Although the tester noted the corrosion was not seriously weakening the structure, the recurring advisory indicates a progressive issue that requires close monitoring. Any significant surface rust or signs of perforation could signal a more serious structural integrity risk. Further attention should be directed toward the front suspension and braking systems. The history shows a pattern of thin front brake pads in both March 2022 and March 2023, suggesting that consumable maintenance is sometimes deferred. Given the recent failures involving ball joints and track rod ends, a physical inspection of all steering and suspension linkages is necessary to ensure no further play exists. Checking the headlamp alignment and wiper functionality is also advised to confirm the recent repairs addressed the faults noted in the July 2026 failure.