2008 Skoda Fabia 1.6L Petrol · KA02 ROY

The most recent MOT, conducted on 4 March 2026, resulted in a failure. Although the test was passed for the majority of items, three major defects were recorded – a missing fuel‑cap sealing device, a non‑functional passenger‑door latch and a deteriorated dust‑cover on the off‑side front upper anti‑roll‑bar ball joint – together with an advisory that the off‑side rear brake pads are now thin. Earlier tests show a generally clean record with only occasional advisories, so the current result marks a clear deterioration in the vehicle’s condition rather than an improvement. At 84 911 miles the Fabia has logged roughly 4 700 miles per year over its 18‑year life, which is well below the typical annual usage for a family hatchback. The low mileage suggests the car has spent long periods standing or has been driven only intermittently. While this reduces wear on high‑mileage components such as the engine and gearbox, age‑related decay of rubber, seals and corrosion‑prone parts can be accelerated when a vehicle is idle for extended periods. Consequently, components that rely on regular movement – suspension bushings, brake hardware and tyre rubber – may be more vulnerable than the mileage alone would indicate. A prospective buyer should give the rear braking system immediate attention. Inspect the off‑side rear pads for remaining thickness and verify that the discs are not excessively scored or approaching the minimum allowable depth; any pulsation, squeal or a spongy pedal on a short test drive would confirm the need for replacement. The off‑side rear disc was already flagged as pitted in 2021 and 2023, so budgeting for a disc and pad set is prudent. The missing fuel‑cap seal should be remedied to prevent evaporative‑emission leaks and to avoid a potential “check‑engine” fault. The faulty passenger‑door latch must be tested by opening the door from both inside and outside; a sticking latch or rusted striker could indicate corrosion that may spread to the door frame. The anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust cover should be replaced; a compromised cover can allow grit to infiltrate the joint, leading to premature wear and a characteristic clunk when cornering or over bumps. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Examine all four tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear, especially the off‑side front tyre that was noted as slightly damaged in 2021; any perishing rubber warrants replacement regardless of tread depth. Verify that the 12 V battery holds charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity even with low mileage. Inspect the under‑carriage for rust, particularly around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, as prolonged storage can promote corrosion. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil and filter changes and that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been refreshed within the recommended intervals, since fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven heavily. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Fabia’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it back to a reliable condition.