2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · GD67 ODB

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 21 January 2026, resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a broadly positive trend in the vehicle's compliance history. Over the five tests available from 2022 through to early 2026, the Skoda Fabia has passed every annual inspection without a single failure, and the only items noted have been minor advisory observations relating to tyre condition. There is no evidence of structural corrosion, exhaust emissions failures, brake system defects, or suspension component issues, which collectively indicates that the car has been maintained to a satisfactory roadworthy standard throughout its recent life. The recorded mileage of 28,883 miles over an eight-year service life equates to an annual average of approximately 3,610 miles, which is markedly below the typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age and class. While low annual mileage reduces wear on high-mileage consumables such as brake discs, clutches, and engine internals, it can introduce its own set of age-related concerns. Long periods of standing or infrequent use can lead to corrosion binding on brake calipers and disc surfaces, deterioration of rubber and polymer components through lack of use, and depletion of battery capacity. The current MOT record, with two consecutive clean tests following the 2024 advisories, suggests that any standing-related issues have either been addressed or are not yet at a level triggering test failure. Given the relatively low recorded mileage and the vehicle's age, a prospective buyer should place particular emphasis on condition-by-care inspection rather than wear-based assessment. Tyres fitted to a low-mileage vehicle are often the original factory items and may suffer from sidewall perishing, cracking, and hardening due to age rather than tread depletion, which aligns with the advisories recorded in 2024 for both rear tyres and the earlier 2022 advisories on the front pair. On a physical inspection, examine all four tyres for signs of sidewall cracking, uneven shoulder wear, or flat-spotting from prolonged standing, and confirm the manufacturing date codes on the sidewalls to ensure they are not excessively old. The brake system should be checked carefully for seized or binding calipers, pitted or corroded brake discs, and the condition of the brake fluid, which is hygroscopic and degrades over time regardless of mileage, generally requiring replacement every two to three years. Additional age-related items warrant close attention on a test drive and static inspection. The 12-volt battery is particularly vulnerable on low-mileage vehicles, as short journeys and prolonged standing allow it to discharge repeatedly, leading to sulphation and reduced capacity; a battery health test or voltage check under load is advisable. Listen for any suspension clonks or knocking over uneven road surfaces, which could indicate perished bushes, worn top mounts, or corroded coil spring seats, all of which can develop on cars that have stood for extended periods. On the test drive, observe for any brake shudder or uneven retardation suggesting corroded discs, check for fluid leaks beneath the engine and around the front and rear axles, and verify the service history to confirm time-based replacements of engine coolant, brake fluid, and spark plugs have been carried out. Even with an unblemished MOT record, a vehicle of this age and usage profile benefits from a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician to identify deterioration that the annual roadworthiness test does not cover.