2016 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · HT16 EGX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT in June 2026, though it carries advisories regarding light oil misting on both front shock absorbers. When reviewing the long-term maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to be in a stable but aging condition. While it has consistently passed its inspections without major failures, there is a clear pattern of recurring advisories related to suspension damping and tyre degradation. The recurrence of the shock absorber advisory, first noted in 2021 and reappearing in 2026, suggests that these components are progressively failing and will require replacement in the near future to maintain ride quality and safety. With a recorded mileage of 55,774 over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,577 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age, indicating light usage or extended periods of being stationary. While this low mileage suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, it introduces specific risks associated with infrequent use. Such usage profiles often lead to accelerated rubber degradation, such as tyre perishing, and can cause brake components to suffer from surface corrosion or pitting due to a lack of regular friction-based cleaning. During your inspection and test drive, pay close attention to the front suspension. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces and observe if the car feels overly bouncy or exhibits excessive body roll, which would confirm the shock absorbers are no longer providing adequate damping. Given the previous advisories for tyre cracking and brake disc pitting, you should physically inspect the tyre sidewalls for deep cracks and check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or scoring. Furthermore, the 2023 advisory regarding coolant crystals suggests a potential historical or intermittent leak; inspect the engine bay thoroughly for any dried residue around the coolant expansion tank, hoses, or the water pump to ensure the cooling system remains sealed. Because this vehicle has been driven infrequently, you must verify that maintenance has been carried out on a time-basis rather than solely on mileage. Ensure the service book confirms annual oil and filter changes, as oil degrades chemically over time regardless of distance traveled. It is also advisable to check the health of the 12V battery and inspect the underside of the vehicle for any signs of standing corrosion or fluid leaks that may have developed while the car was parked for long periods.