2016 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Diesel · LC59 LPC

The latest MOT test for this 2016 Škoda Fabia on 2026-06-22 resulted in a passing grade, though it included a single advisory regarding near-side front tyre damage and cracking or perishing. This follows a pattern of mixed results over the past five years, with two previous failures in 2021 and 2025 both highlighting excessive wear in the anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, which are critical components for maintaining suspension geometry and lateral stability. The intervening MOTs show a progression of wear-related advisories—particularly in tyres, shock absorbers, and brake discs—suggesting that while the vehicle has avoided outright failures in recent years, underlying mechanical degradation is present and may require closer attention. The presence of multiple advisories on tyres and suspension components indicates a need for proactive maintenance rather than reactive repairs, as these issues often escalate with continued use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 75,761 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,576 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a ten-year-old car. This level of mileage does not inherently indicate excessive wear beyond what is expected for its age, but the combination of relatively high mileage and repeated advisories on suspension and tyre components suggests that the vehicle has undergone significant stress over time. Notably, there is no evidence of sudden, rapid mileage accumulation, which might otherwise raise concerns about potential misuse or neglect. However, the consistent wear patterns on suspension and tyres imply that the vehicle has been driven in a manner that has accelerated component fatigue, warranting a thorough inspection to assess whether the wear is progressive or stabilising. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension system and tyre condition, as these have been recurrent issues in the MOT history. The excessive wear in the anti-roll bar linkage ball joints from the 2021 and 2025 failures indicates that these components may require replacement soon, as further deterioration could lead to suspension binding, uneven ride quality, or even steering instability. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension when driving over bumps, as this often signals worn ball joints or suspension bushings. Additionally, check for excessive play in the steering wheel or uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension failure. During the inspection, visually inspect the tyres for signs of cracking or perishing along the sidewall, particularly on the near-side front tyre where the 2026 advisory was noted, as this can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Measure the tyre tread depth to ensure it remains above the legal minimum of 1.6mm, and look for uneven wear that could suggest alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the suspension and tyres, the brake system should be thoroughly examined, particularly the brake discs, which were noted as pitted but not seriously weakened in the 2021 MOT. While the discs appear to be in acceptable condition at present, their pitting could indicate ongoing wear or potential corrosion if the vehicle has been left standing for prolonged periods. Inspect the brake discs for any signs of binding or excessive heat discolouration, which could suggest caliper issues or uneven wear. Test the braking performance by applying firm pressure on the pedal, listening for any grinding, squealing, or spongy feel, which could indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or fluid contamination. The 12V battery and electrical systems should also be checked, as older vehicles like this Fabia are prone to battery failure or starter issues, especially if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Finally, consider the calendar-based maintenance of fluids, such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which should be replaced every 60,000–100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first, to prevent degradation from age or lack of use. If the vehicle has a service history book, verify that all recommended intervals have been adhered to, as this will provide a clearer picture of the vehicle’s maintenance record and help identify any gaps in care.