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

The vehicle most recently passed its DVSA MOT test on 13 December 2025 with a small number of advisories recorded against the front suspension and front tyres. While a pass certifies the vehicle as roadworthy at the time of test, the emergence of advisories on both sides of the front suspension and on both front tyres does introduce a maintenance question. The previous tests in November 2024 and December 2023 were passed without any defects or advisories, which suggests the car has been well maintained for most of its life but is now beginning to show typical wear items. The overall trend is therefore stable but beginning to show age-related degradation, rather than worsening or improving, and the advisories should be treated as early warnings of components that will require attention in the near future. The recorded mileage of 25,301 miles over a six-year period equates to roughly 4,217 miles per year, which is well below the national average and indicates either light private use or extended periods of standing. This is not necessarily a negative, as the engine, gearbox, and clutch have experienced relatively little mechanical stress. However, low annual mileage combined with an older vehicle does carry its own risks, particularly in terms of corrosion from infrequent use, brake disc and caliper seizure through lack of regular application, and degradation of fluids, rubber components, and the 12V battery through calendar ageing rather than wear. In terms of the recorded advisories, the front wishbone bushes warrant close physical inspection. At the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, and check for uneven tyre wear across the front axle, as worn or perished wishbone bushes frequently cause accelerated inner or outer edge wear. The front tyres were recorded at 3mm tread depth, which is approaching the legal minimum of 1.6mm and means replacement is likely due imminently; consider a matching pair of quality tyres as part of the purchase negotiation. When inspecting, jack the front of the vehicle and check for play in the bushes by hand, and visually inspect for any cracking, splitting, or oil contamination on the rubber. Given the low annual mileage, several age-related checks are equally important. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, as tyres degrade chemically with age even when tread remains adequate, and verify the production date on the sidewall. Examine the brake discs for surface corrosion and rust jutting, and confirm the calipers are releasing freely by ensuring the wheels rotate smoothly when jacked. Check the 12V battery for holding charge, particularly if the car has stood for long periods, as low-output batteries are common on low-mileage vehicles. Finally, verify the service history to confirm that brake fluid has been changed within the last two years, coolant within the last four years, and that the timing chain or cambelt, depending on the TSI variant, has been serviced at the manufacturer-recommended mileage or age interval, as time-based servicing is critical regardless of low odometer readings.