2020 Skoda Octavia SE Technology TSI 1.5L Petrol · GL70 KVB

A pattern of front-end wear is the defining mechanical theme of this 2020 SKODA OCTAVIA's MOT record. Over the four documented tests spanning late 2023 to mid 2026, the vehicle has accumulated a series of advisories and one major failure specifically clustered around the front suspension, front brakes and front tyres. The 2025 test recorded symmetrical wear to the nearside and offside front suspension arm console bushes, while the 2026 test introduced a major defect for a perished offside front upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover alongside advisories for both front tyres wearing close to the legal limit and front brake pads thinning. The fact that the most recent test on 27 July 2026 passed only after a same-day failure for the anti-roll bar dust cover indicates that the front-end component wear is not isolated and is actively progressing rather than resolving. Against a typical annual mileage expectation of roughly 8,000 miles, the recorded 48,430 miles over six years sits close to the expected norm, suggesting consistent rather than light or heavy use. There are no extended gaps between tests that would imply the vehicle was off the road for prolonged periods, and the intervals between recorded tests align with continuous annual use. This ordinary usage pattern is consistent with the type of wear observed, as the front suspension, brake and tyre advisories reflect steady accumulation rather than neglect, but it also means the consumables and suspension joints are reaching the stage where further replacements should be anticipated within the next service interval. For a prospective buyer, the priority on inspection is the front suspension assembly, which has now produced advisories across two consecutive years and one major failure. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front end over uneven surfaces, speed bumps or when turning at low speed, as these are characteristic symptoms of worn anti-roll bar linkages and degraded suspension arm bushes. Pay particular attention to steering response, as excessive play vagueness through the centre position or a clunk when changing direction can indicate further deterioration of the anti-roll bar joint beyond what the dust cover condition alone suggests. A workshop hoist inspection is strongly recommended to assess the physical condition of the anti-roll bar drop links, the front suspension arm bushes, and the front strut top mounts, since the record indicates progressive wear in this area rather than a single isolated incident. The front brake system and tyres also warrant close scrutiny before purchase. The 2026 advisories noted front brake pads wearing thin and both front tyres worn close to the legal limit on their inner and outer edges respectively, which suggests uneven wear patterns that may point to tracking misalignment, worn suspension geometry or simply the tyres being due for replacement imminently. On a test drive, apply the brakes firmly at low speed to check for any judder through the pedal, which can indicate warped front brake discs often accompanying thin pad condition. Inspect the front tyres physically for any uneven shoulder wear, and confirm whether replacement tyres have already been fitted since the July 2026 test. Additionally, given the recurring front-end advisories, a thorough check of all brake pipes, flexible hoses and the underbody condition for any early corrosion is advisable, even though no such items have yet been flagged in the MOT record.