2017 Skoda Octavia 1.6L Diesel · GD17 TZP

The most recent MOT on 15 April 2026 was a pass, but it carried two advisories – a minor oil leak and light misting of oil from the off‑side rear shock absorber. Over the last two years the pattern has been mixed: the 2025 and 2024 tests each produced a failure for serious rear‑shock leakage and an off‑side front anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint wear, while the 2023 and 2020 examinations were clean apart from a rear‑disc advisory. The recurrence of shock‑absorber oil issues and the recent seat‑belt anchorage failure suggest a maintenance trend that is currently deteriorating rather than stabilising, and the vehicle will require corrective work before it can be considered reliably roadworthy. At 204 636 mi for a 2017 model the car averages roughly 22 700 mi per year, which is well above the typical UK average of about 10‑12 000 mi annually. Such high utilisation accelerates wear on tyre tread, suspension bushings, shock absorbers and braking components, and it also increases the likelihood of engine‑oil degradation and coolant system stress. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the recorded history, indicating continuous use rather than long periods of storage, which means the wear observed on the shocks and anti‑roll bar is likely a result of cumulative mileage rather than age alone. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear shock absorbers, especially the off‑side unit that has shown both light misting and a prior serious leak. Inspect the shock bodies for oil seepage, check the mounting bolts for tightness, and listen for a hollow thump or excessive bounce when the car is driven over bumps. The front anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint, flagged as excessively worn, should be examined for play and any knocking noises during cornering; replacement is advisable as failure can affect handling stability. The front brake pads were noted as thin in 2024, so a visual inspection of pad thickness and disc condition is essential, and the rear brake disc, already described as pitted, should be measured for minimum thickness to avoid sudden loss of braking efficiency. In addition to the recurring defects, the vehicle’s high mileage and age warrant a thorough general check. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot and uneven wear that may have been accelerated by the high annual mileage; confirm that tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit. Verify the condition of the seat‑belt anchorage on the off‑side, ensuring the webbing and metal fittings are intact, as a previous failure indicates possible structural compromise. Test the 12 V battery for cranking voltage and inspect for corrosion on terminals, since a car with this usage profile may have experienced intermittent charging. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been replaced in line with calendar intervals – typically every 12‑24 months – because fluids can degrade even when the car is driven regularly, leading to leaks or reduced performance. Addressing these items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the car’s remaining service life and roadworthiness.