2015 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · GD65 KMA

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Škoda Fabia, conducted on 2025-11-20, resulted in a passing grade with several persistent advisories that suggest a pattern of wear-related issues rather than sudden failures. While the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness, the recurring advisories—particularly around the front suspension components, tyre condition, and minor oil leaks—indicate that maintenance attention has been required over the past two years. The lack of failures and the consistent passing of earlier MOTs through to 2023 suggests a stable maintenance trend, but the advisories highlight areas that require closer monitoring to prevent progression into more serious defects. The presence of oil misting in the shock absorbers and worn suspension arm bushes nearside and offside points to gradual degradation in these components, which could lead to reduced handling stability and increased road noise if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 73,843 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,713 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a 11-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but it does imply moderate to heavy usage over the past decade, particularly in the last two years where advisories became more frequent. Higher mileage tends to accelerate wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as fluid degradation in the cooling, braking, and transmission systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the car has been in regular use, which may have contributed to the observed wear patterns, though the lack of rapid mileage accumulation does not indicate any immediate drivetrain or mechanical stress issues. Given the advisories recorded in the latest MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the shock absorbers, suspension arms, and their associated bushes. Visually inspect the shock absorbers for any signs of excessive oil leakage or physical damage, and listen for unusual clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate failing bushings or worn suspension components. The worn suspension arm bushes should be checked for excessive play or binding, which could lead to uneven tyre wear or handling instability. Additionally, the offside front tyre’s proximity to the legal limit and its edge wear suggest it is approaching the end of its useful life, and the tyre’s cracking or perishing condition warrants immediate replacement to avoid blowouts or reduced traction. Test the braking system for any signs of pulsation or shudder, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers, and verify that the brake fluid level is adequate and free from contamination. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid-related components. Check for signs of corrosion, particularly around the offside front tyre area, wheel arches, and undercarriage, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rusting of critical suspension and drivetrain components. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to age-related degradation, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements. Pay special attention to the rear tyres, as the 2019 MOT advisory of perishing may have been a precursor to further wear or damage. The battery should be tested for strength, as older vehicles often struggle with electrical systems when the battery nears the end of its lifespan, and the 12V system should be checked for any signs of sluggish starting or electrical gremlins. Finally, since the vehicle is approaching its 11-year mark, the buyer should confirm that all scheduled service intervals—particularly those related to fluid changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluid)—have been adhered to or are due, as calendar-based fluid degradation can lead to premature component failure. If the service history is incomplete, a professional inspection to verify fluid condition and component wear is strongly recommended.