2018 Skoda Octavia 1.6L Diesel · GD18 VRY

The most recent MOT on 22 May 2026 recorded a failure, principally for headlamp aim being too low on both sides, together with advisories concerning a deteriorating front registration plate and a near‑side front tyre that is close to the legal tread limit. Over the preceding seven years the vehicle has moved from a series of minor windscreen chips and a single advisory on front shock oil to more substantive concerns such as thin front brake pads, anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint play and progressive tyre damage, indicating a maintenance trend that is gradually worsening rather than stabilising. At 70,594 mi the Octavia averages roughly 8,800 mi per annum, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope for a 2018 model. The mileage record shows no long periods of inactivity that would suggest severe calendar ageing, nor any spikes of high annual mileage that would accelerate wear of drivetrain components. Consequently the wear observed is more likely to be a function of normal road use compounded by the vehicle’s age rather than excessive mileage. A prospective buyer should give the tyres the most immediate attention. The near‑side front tyre is already at the legal limit and the off‑side rear tyre shows sidewall cracking; both should be measured for tread depth and sidewall integrity, and any signs of perishing or embedded objects must be addressed promptly, as tyre failure is a safety critical issue. The front brake pads were flagged as thin in the 2024 test, so the pads and discs should be inspected for uneven wear, glazing or scoring, and a test‑drive should be listened to for any shudder or squeal when applying the brakes. The anti‑roll‑bar ball joint on the near‑side front exhibited slight play in 2025, so the bushings and ball joint should be checked for excessive movement or knocking, especially over bumps, as this can affect handling and lead to premature suspension wear. The headlamp aim failure must be corrected – a simple alignment at a reputable workshop will restore proper illumination and avoid a repeat failure. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related items merit a thorough visual and tactile check. Verify that the windscreen chips have not propagated and that the front registration plate is securely mounted and legible. Inspect the suspension bushes and shock absorbers for oil seepage or loss of damping, and feel for any clunking or looseness when the car is pushed over a curb. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, test the 12 V battery voltage and consider a load test, as batteries often lose capacity after five years. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and that any time‑based fluids such as brake fluid and gearbox oil have been refreshed in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule. Addressing these points will give the buyer a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the near‑term maintenance required.