2020 Skoda Scala 1.5L Petrol · KP20 AAU

A largely clean MOT record for this 2020 Skoda Scala is anchored by a pattern of worn rear brake components flagged on the most recent examination dated 26 February 2026, alongside a notable tyre failure in early 2025. The earlier tests in June 2023 and June 2024 both passed without advisories, establishing a period of unblemished roadworthiness before the rear tyre was rejected for a deep inner sidewall cut in February 2025, followed two days later by a clean pass. The 2026 pass shows the vehicle remains fundamentally sound, but the emergence of rear brake pad and disc advisories suggests the rear braking system is now entering a wear phase that warrants close attention during any pre-purchase evaluation. With around 27,025 miles recorded over six years, the car is accumulating roughly 4,500 miles annually, which is notably low for its age. Such modest usage generally reduces wear on major drivetrain components, but extended periods of standing can promote corrosion on underbody steel, brake disc surface pitting from infrequent use, and drying or cracking of rubber components such as suspension bushes and gaiters. The mileage progression across the recorded tests indicates consistent light use without sudden spikes or long unrecorded gaps, which is the more favourable interpretation for mechanical longevity. Given the rear brake pad and disc advisories from the February 2026 test, a prospective buyer should carry out a measured inspection of the rear braking system. Expect to hear any scraping or grinding noise on a light application of the footbrake, and feel for any rear wheel judder under firm braking from around 30 mph. The discs themselves should be checked for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and for any roughness when running a fingertip across the braking surface. With the rear pads described as wearing thin, replacement is likely due in the near term, and any signs of binding calipers, such as the rear running noticeably hotter than the front after a short drive, would warrant further investigation. The February 2025 tyre failure is a single isolated event rather than a recurring pattern, but it does reinforce the need to examine all four tyres for cuts, bulges, or perished sidewalls, particularly given the car is now six years old and original factory rubber may still be fitted. The recurring advisory regarding a child seat obstructing inspection of the nearside rear adult belt is a recurring test bay limitation rather than a mechanical defect, though it does mean the condition of that belt has never been independently verified. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the rear suspension over speed humps and rougher tarmac, which could indicate worn bushes given the low annual mileage, and check for any pulling to one side under braking to confirm the rear brake wear is even rather than confined to a single caliper.