2015 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · LP15 UAF

The most recent MOT on 10 February 2026 was passed, the only comment being an advisory that the off‑side rear tyre is worn close to the legal limit on the tread edge. Over the preceding seven years the vehicle has shown a mixed picture: early tests in 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023 were clean or only advisory, but the January 2025 test recorded a dangerous defect – a bulge on the near‑side front tyre – and a failure for excessive front‑tyre wear. Since then the car has passed its MOTs, albeit with a recurring tyre‑wear advisory. In summary the mechanical condition appears broadly stable, yet tyre health has deteriorated and will require immediate attention. At 59,212 mi the Fabia averages roughly 5,400 mi per year, which is well below the typical 10‑12 000 mi for a vehicle of its age. Such low utilisation often indicates long periods of storage or very light use. While reduced mileage lessens wear on engine and drivetrain components, it can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber, battery plates and brake hardware. The modest annual mileage also means that consumables such as brake pads and fluids may have been changed less frequently than recommended, potentially leaving them past their service intervals despite the low mileage. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set the highest priority. Examine the front and rear tyres for tread depth on all four corners, looking for uneven wear, sidewall cracks or any bulges that could indicate internal ply separation. The near‑side front tyre that previously showed a bulge must be inspected for structural integrity; any sign of a bubble, soft spot or loss of rigidity warrants immediate replacement. The off‑side rear tyre, already close to the legal limit, should be measured with a tread depth gauge and, if under 1.6 mm, replaced without hesitation. While checking the tyres, also verify that the near‑side rear tyre is free of the nail reported in 2022 and that the wheel rims are not bent or corroded. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑usage pattern, a thorough visual and functional inspection of the braking system, suspension and ancillary components is essential. Inspect the rear brake pads for remaining thickness and the discs for surface rust or glazing, and test the brakes for any pulsation or noise that could indicate uneven pad wear or a sticking caliper. Examine the suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for cracks, leakage or excessive play, especially since low mileage does not preclude age‑related rubber hardening. Check the 12 V battery voltage and conduct a cranking test; a battery that has sat idle for long periods often loses capacity and may need replacement. Finally, confirm that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within their recommended service intervals (typically every 12‑24 months) and look for any signs of fluid leakage, corrosion on the under‑carriage and the condition of the exhaust system. A full service history and any recent component replacements will give further confidence in the car’s roadworthiness.