2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · GL68 CVC

The 2018 Škoda Fabia’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-28 resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded, marking a positive conclusion to a maintenance history that has remained consistently stable over the past five years. While the earlier advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear and damage—suggest some attention to tyre management, none of these issues have escalated into failures, indicating a generally well-maintained vehicle with no recurring mechanical or structural concerns. The absence of repeated failures or advisories in the last two MOTs further supports a stable condition, though the tyre-related advisories warrant closer scrutiny during a physical inspection to ensure they do not indicate underlying alignment or suspension issues that could worsen with continued use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 46,316 miles at the time of this assessment represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,790 miles per year, which is notably lower than what would be expected for a car of this age in the UK market. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged storage, infrequent use, or a more leisurely driving profile, which may have contributed to the vehicle’s apparent good condition. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee absence of wear from standing, particularly in components like brakes, suspension, and fluids, which can degrade over time even when the vehicle is not in motion. The suspension bushes, for instance, may exhibit stiffness or clunking when the car is driven, and brake discs could show signs of corrosion or binding if left stationary for extended periods. For a prospective buyer, the tyre advisories from previous MOTs should be addressed first, as they indicate areas of concern that could lead to further damage if ignored. The nearside front tyre cuts and edge wear suggest either uneven tyre pressure, incorrect alignment, or excessive speeding, all of which can accelerate tyre degradation. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise or vibrations, and check for uneven tread wear patterns that may point to misalignment or suspension issues. The rear tyre perishing and cracking advisories also warrant attention, as sidewall damage can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. Inspect the tyres for any signs of dry rot, bulges, or cracks, and ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. Additionally, verify that the vehicle’s wheel alignment and camber angles are correct to prevent further tyre wear. Beyond tyres, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough inspection should focus on the following critical areas. Check the brake system for corrosion or binding calipers, particularly on the near and offside sides, as prolonged standing can cause rust to build up on brake discs and pads. Listen for grinding noises when braking, which may indicate worn pads or damaged discs, and test the pedal feel for firmness or sponginess, which could signal fluid degradation or hydraulic issues. Inspect the suspension for signs of wear, such as cracked or stiff coil springs, broken or seized suspension bushes, or excessive play in the struts. A test drive should reveal any clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps or at higher speeds. The engine oil and coolant should be checked for colour, contamination, or signs of dilution, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, verify that the 12V battery is fully charged and free from corrosion on the terminals, as low usage can lead to battery failure or poor starting performance. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a comprehensive fluid top-up and a check of the exhaust emissions system for any signs of corrosion or blockages, as standing can also affect catalytic converter efficiency.