2015 Skoda Citigo 1.0L Petrol · MA15 AAZ

The most recent MOT test for the 2015 Škoda Citigo was conducted on 2025-10-10 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were recorded at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories related to the rear tyres, specifically noting slight damage, cracking, or perishing in both the nearside and offside rear tyres during the 2024 tests, with the 2024-10-15 MOT also flagging major issues with the offside rear fog lamp and its associated tell-tale. While the 2023 and 2025 tests were free of defects, the presence of these tyre advisories and the failure in 2024 suggests a potential underlying issue with tyre management or vehicle handling that may have been overlooked in previous maintenance. The fact that the tyre advisories were not present in the 2023 MOT implies that either the vehicle was driven less aggressively or the tyres were not subjected to the same wear conditions then, but the cumulative risk remains elevated for the buyer. The recorded mileage of 63,189 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,744 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its class. Such low mileage can indicate either light or intermittent use, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion, particularly in the wheel arches, suspension components, and underbody areas where moisture and road salt accumulate. However, it could also reflect a vehicle that has been stored for extended periods without regular movement, which may accelerate wear in consumables like brake fluids, transmission fluid, and engine oil due to time-based degradation. The absence of higher mileage figures suggests that the vehicle may not have been subjected to the same levels of mechanical stress as a similarly aged car with greater annual mileage, but this does not absolve the buyer of thorough inspection, especially concerning components prone to neglect when a vehicle is stationary for long durations. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the potential for standing corrosion, the buyer should conduct a meticulous inspection of the rear tyres, focusing on the tread depth and sidewall condition. The advisories from the 2024 MOT indicate that the tyres may already be nearing the point of significant wear or damage, which could compromise traction and handling, particularly in wet or adverse conditions. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear wheels, such as clunking or uneven suspension engagement, which may signal misalignment or suspension component wear. Additionally, visually inspect the tyres for cracks, bulges, or signs of excessive dry rot, and consider replacing them if they are below the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm or show any signs of structural compromise. The offside rear fog lamp failure from the 2024 MOT is a straightforward electrical issue that should be rectified promptly, but the tell-tale’s non-functioning may also indicate a broader electrical system concern that warrants further investigation. For the broader vehicle assessment, the buyer should also examine the wheel arches and underbody for signs of rust or corrosion, particularly around the rear suspension mounts and exhaust system, as prolonged exposure to moisture and road salt can accelerate deterioration in these areas. Check the suspension for any signs of excessive play or binding, which may suggest worn control arms, bushes, or strut mounts. Inspect the brake system, including the rear discs and calipers, for signs of corrosion or binding, as standing vehicles can lead to brake fluid absorption of moisture, causing corrosion and reduced braking performance. Verify the fluid levels and condition of all fluids, including the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, ensuring they are topped up and free of contaminants. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, and ensure the service book is up to date for time-based maintenance tasks such as the timing belt replacement (if applicable) and exhaust emissions checks. Finally, a professional inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the condition of the suspension, drivetrain, and electrical systems, addressing any potential issues before proceeding with purchase.