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

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT status as of November 2025, but the most recent test at 43,575 miles revealed multiple advisories that indicate a deteriorating maintenance trend. While the car passed, the same suspension bushes and shock absorber oil misting issues reappeared from prior tests, now compounded by a tyre failure on the offside front that exceeded legal limits — a clear escalation from earlier minor cuts. The recurring suspension component wear, particularly the lower arm bushes coming unbonded and the persistent shock absorber oil leakage, suggests a pattern of deferred servicing rather than a one-off fault. The windscreen damage, while not critical, remains unresolved and may indicate a broader neglect of cosmetic and structural integrity checks. Mileage progression shows a steady annual average of around 7,262 miles over six years, which is within normal parameters for a private-use vehicle of this age. The jump from 35,826 miles in November 2024 to 43,575 miles in November 2025 reflects roughly 7,749 miles in one year — slightly above average, but not alarming. No significant gaps or anomalies appear in the record, and the vehicle has been tested annually without major lapses. The consistency of testing intervals and the absence of extended periods without MOTs suggest the owner has maintained compliance, even if not necessarily proactive in addressing underlying wear. Buyers should inspect the front suspension bushes and shock absorbers closely, as these components have shown progressive degradation across multiple tests. The oil misting on both front shock absorbers is not an immediate failure but signals internal wear that may lead to reduced damping and increased road noise or handling instability. The nearside and offside front lower suspension arm bushes, now described as “coming unbonded,” require replacement to prevent excessive play or premature wear on steering and wheel alignment. Tyre condition must be verified in person — the offside front tyre that failed in 2025 was already showing signs of excessive wear in 2023, indicating a possible alignment or suspension issue that was not corrected. Structural and safety-related items like the windscreen, while not currently failing, should be checked for any hidden cracks or delamination that could compromise visibility or structural rigidity. The tyre cuts, though superficial in most cases, may indicate poor road handling or uneven wear patterns that could mask deeper alignment problems. Brake components, particularly the rear calipers, were flagged for binding in the 2025 test — a serious mechanical fault that must be addressed immediately. Overall, the vehicle is mechanically sound for road use but carries a maintenance backlog that could escalate into more costly repairs if not addressed before purchase.