2018 Skoda Kodiaq 1.4L Petrol · HT67 MLN

The 2018 Skoda Kodiaq presented a PASSED outcome at its most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 5 March 2026, with a single advisory issued regarding a cut on the nearside rear tyre that was assessed as insufficient depth to reach the tyre ply or cords. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has secured consecutive passes since its first recorded test in February 2022, with clean sheets across the 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 examinations. The maintenance trend therefore reads as consistently stable rather than deteriorating or improving, with no accumulating advisories, monitoring items, or failure points that would suggest any systemic neglect. The single tyre advisory at the most recent test is an isolated, minor item rather than evidence of broader deterioration. With 64,943 miles recorded over an eight-year service life, the Kodiaq has averaged approximately 8,118 miles annually, which sits broadly within typical usage parameters for a family SUV of this age and segment. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT record and the annual mileage appears consistent, indicating regular rather than sporadic use. This pattern is mechanically favourable, as components such as the timing chain, turbocharger, DSG gearbox (if fitted), clutch, brake friction materials, and suspension bushes will have been subjected to normal working cycles rather than suffering the accelerated degradation often associated with very high mileage or, conversely, the seized calipers, rusted brake discs, perished rubber components, and stale fluids commonly seen on vehicles left standing for prolonged periods. Given the clean MOT record and the relatively modest annual mileage, the prospective buyer should still carry out a targeted physical inspection aligned with the calendar age of the vehicle. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and crazing caused by UV exposure over eight years, irrespective of remaining tread depth, and the advisory item should be checked to confirm the nearside rear tyre has been replaced or professionally inspected since March 2026. The 12V battery is likely approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load tested, while all fluid services warrant verification through the service book, including engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid replacement (recommended every two years due to its hygroscopic nature), coolant, and if applicable the DSG automatic transmission fluid and filter at the manufacturer-specified intervals. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, surface corrosion, and binding calipers, and a thorough check made underneath the vehicle for any oil or coolant weeping from the engine, transmission, or differential seals, as well as the condition of the exhaust system, driveshaft gaiters, and suspension components. On the test drive, particular attention should be paid to the behaviour of the dual-clutch gearbox, ensuring smooth and confident gear selection without hesitation, juddering, or any warning lights relating to the mechatronics unit. Listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar links, drop links, or control arm bushes, and monitor for vibration through the steering wheel under braking which may suggest warped front discs. The diesel or petrol engine should be observed from cold start for excessive smoke, timing chain rattle, or coolant warning lights, and the operation of the four-wheel-drive system (if equipped) should be confirmed to engage smoothly without warning messages on the instrument cluster. Finally, verify the full service history with verifiable stamps and invoices, confirm the cambelt or timing chain service interval has been observed according to Skoda schedule, and ensure any dashboard warning lights extinguish promptly after ignition to confirm there are no latent electronic faults stored within the vehicle systems.