2016 Skoda Superb 1.6L Diesel · GD66 FFT

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Škoda Superb was conducted on 2025-12-16 and resulted in a passing grade, though it follows a pattern of recurring advisories and one dangerous failure. Over the past five years, the vehicle has demonstrated a consistent trend of wear-related issues, particularly in the braking system and tyres, with no outright failures aside from the 2021 test’s dangerous front tyre defect. The advisories from prior MOTs—such as thin brake pads, worn tyres, and pitted brake discs—suggest a pattern of gradual but persistent component degradation, which could indicate either suboptimal maintenance or inherent wear from high mileage. While the latest test shows no defects, the history implies that the vehicle’s maintenance regimen has not fully addressed the underlying wear progression, warranting careful inspection of critical systems before purchase. The recorded mileage of 148,634 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a notably high annual usage rate of approximately 14,863 miles per annum, which is significantly above the average for its age group. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as potential stress on drivetrain and structural elements. The absence of long periods of inactivity or light use further suggests that the vehicle has undergone rigorous operational demands, potentially leading to accelerated degradation of seals, bushings, and fluid integrity. Buyers should be particularly mindful of how this usage profile may have influenced the observed advisories, particularly in the braking and tyre systems, where wear is often most pronounced. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and recurring MOT advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the condition of the braking system, suspension, and tyres. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as squeaking or grinding from the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or binding calipers, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns or excessive vibration, which may signal misalignment or suspension issues. Inspect the front and rear tyres closely for signs of bulges or cracks, as the 2021 dangerous failure highlights the risk of tyre failure. Additionally, visually assess the brake discs for pitting, warping, or corrosion, and measure the remaining pad thickness to ensure they are not dangerously thin. The suspension should be checked for excessive clunking or bouncing, which may suggest worn shock absorbers or suspension bushes, as the 2022 advisory suggests some misting of oil in the offside rear shock absorber. For the buyer, the next critical steps include verifying the service history, particularly for brake system servicing, tyre replacement intervals, and suspension component replacements. Given the high mileage and wear advisories, it is advisable to replace the brake pads and discs if they are at or near the legal minimum thickness, and to consider upgrading to higher-quality pads to mitigate future wear. Tyres should be replaced if they are worn to the legal limit or show signs of structural compromise, such as bulges or cracks, to prevent sudden failure. The suspension should be inspected for signs of further wear, and if the offside rear shock absorber shows persistent misting, it may require replacement to prevent reduced damping efficiency. Furthermore, check for any fluid leaks, particularly from the cooling system, transmission, and brake systems, as fluid degradation over time can exacerbate component failure. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle’s bodywork for rust or corrosion, especially in areas prone to moisture exposure like wheel arches and undercarriage, is essential, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile.