2020 Skoda Karoq 1.5L Petrol · LS20 OXM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-06 resulted in a failure due to an illuminated Engine Management Light (MIL) indicating a malfunction, which is a critical failure category under DVSA standards. This failure contrasts with the clean test results from the preceding two years, suggesting a potential underlying issue with the vehicle’s engine control system that has not been addressed prior to this test. While the earlier MOTs were passed, the presence of this persistent fault—particularly when combined with the previous advisory for near-side and offside front tyre wear close to legal limits—indicates a maintenance gap that may have allowed wear and tear to progress beyond routine servicing thresholds. The failure to rectify the MIL issue before the latest test raises concerns about the vehicle’s long-term reliability and the need for immediate diagnostic attention. The recorded mileage of 38,965 miles for a 2020 Škoda Karoq reflects a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,494 miles, which is typical for its age and class. This level of mileage suggests moderate to heavy use, particularly given the vehicle’s age, and implies that consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and tyres have experienced accelerated wear. The significant gap between the 2024 and 2026 MOTs—approximately two years—could indicate periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have exacerbated minor issues like tyre wear or fluid leaks, as evidenced by the 2024 advisories and the 2024 failure for offside front shock absorber fluid leakage. However, the absence of higher mileage spikes does not preclude the need for thorough inspection, as standing vehicles can still suffer from corrosion, particularly in the wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake systems, where moisture and road salt accelerate deterioration. Given the recent MOT failure and the history of advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the engine control system, including the wiring harness, sensors, and fuel injection components, to confirm the cause of the MIL. Listen for irregularities during the test drive, such as rough idling, misfires, or a loss of power, which may indicate deeper engine or emissions-related issues. The offside front shock absorber failure from 2024 highlights the importance of inspecting the suspension for signs of fluid contamination, broken mounts, or worn springs, as these can lead to poor ride quality, uneven tyre wear, and handling instability. Check for oil leaks around the shock absorbers, and visually inspect the suspension bushings for cracks or excessive play. Additionally, verify the tyre condition beyond the MOT advisories—look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracks, or signs of overinflation/deflation, which could suggest alignment or suspension issues. For the tyre wear advisories recorded in 2024, the buyer should measure the tread depth precisely, as the vehicle may already be nearing the legal minimum on the offside front tyre. A test drive should reveal any associated handling anomalies, such as a pull to one side or excessive vibration, which could indicate misaligned wheels or worn suspension components. The rear child seat advisory from 2023 is non-critical but serves as a reminder to ensure the vehicle’s seating and safety features are functional and compliant with current regulations. Beyond the MOT findings, a thorough physical inspection is advised, focusing on the vehicle’s undercarriage for corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust system, as well as the brake discs and calipers for signs of corrosion or binding. Check the 12V battery for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles may suffer from degraded terminals or internal failure, especially if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage, particularly in a vehicle of this age.