2009 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Diesel · LS09 KBP

The most recent DVSA examination on 17 July 2026 resulted in a PASS, albeit with two minor defects and an advisory recorded. Notably, the vehicle achieved a pass on the second attempt in 2023 following an earlier failure for a fractured offside front coil spring, and the subsequent tests have been progressively cleaner with only advisory notes raised in 2024 and 2025, culminating in a relatively straightforward pass at the most recent assessment. The latest minor items concerning the nearside front steering rack gaiter and an under-inflated offside rear tyre are routine in nature, and the advisory regarding corrosion on both front coil springs should be monitored carefully given the prior failure for a fractured spring. Overall, the trend indicates a stable, well-maintained vehicle with no fresh major or dangerous defects reported at the latest test. With 183,309 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, this Fabia averages roughly 10,783 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no unusually large gaps between MOT tests that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor is there any evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that would point to exceptionally hard use such as towing or commercial operation. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent and reflects ordinary daily driving, meaning wear on major mechanical components is likely to be commensurate with expectations rather than disproportionately advanced. Recurring advisory items warrant careful attention prior to purchase. The offside front shock absorber has exhibited light oil misting across both 2023 and 2025 tests, indicating the seal is gradually deteriorating; on a test drive, listen for knocking or clonking over bumps and uneven road surfaces, and observe whether the vehicle sits level or shows excessive bounce after compression. The coil spring corrosion advisory recorded in 2026, together with the prior fractured spring failure on the offside front in 2023, demands a thorough physical inspection of both front springs for visible cracking, flaking, or complete fracture, as corroded springs on high-mileage Fabias are a known weakness. The Macpherson strut pin and lower suspension arm inner bush advisories from 2025 suggest wear in the front suspension geometry; during a test drive, pay attention to any vagueness in steering response, clunks when turning at low speed, or uneven front tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges, as this is characteristic of worn suspension bushes. Additionally, the recurring advisories regarding the rear exhaust back box corrosion in 2023 and 2024 warrant checking the full exhaust length for thinning, blow holes, or excessive rust, and the constant velocity boot deterioration noted in 2024 should be re-examined for any splits that could allow grease loss and eventual joint failure. Beyond the recorded defects, a prospective buyer should carry out age and mileage-appropriate physical checks. Inspect all four tyres not only for tread depth but also for sidewall cracking and perishing, as the 2025 advisory noted deterioration across all four and replacement tyres are likely advisable given the vehicle's age. Check for brake disc corrosion or seized calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stood for any period, and verify the 12V battery's health since units of this age frequently require replacement regardless of MOT status. Confirm that brake fluid and coolant have been serviced according to calendar intervals rather than purely by mileage, as both degrade over time, and request evidence of cambelt and water pump replacement if the Fabia is fitted with a petrol engine, as this is a critical age-related service item. Finally, examine the underbody and suspension components for surface corrosion consistent with a UK-operated 17-year-old vehicle, and ensure the service book or digital history shows regular oil and filter changes to substantiate the high recorded mileage.