2015 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · ML15 AAY

The most recent MOT test conducted on the 2016 Skoda Yeti on 2026-02-03 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround after two consecutive failures in the preceding year. The vehicle’s maintenance history reflects a pattern of recurring issues primarily centred on the offside rear suspension components and minor optical defects, with the most critical failures from 2025-02 addressing a compromised constant velocity (CV) joint boot and an insecure obligatory mirror. While the 2024 MOT was entirely free of defects, the two prior failures suggest a potential underlying wear or manufacturing inconsistency in the CV joint assembly or suspension mounting points, warranting careful attention to the rear axle and suspension linkage during inspection. The presence of an advisory for light oil misting in the offside rear shock absorber in 2025 indicates early signs of internal leakage, which could escalate if left unaddressed, potentially leading to a loss of damping effectiveness or hydraulic failure. The recorded mileage of 64,082 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,826 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its class. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a more leisure-oriented driving profile, but it also raises concerns about potential standing corrosion, particularly in the suspension, exhaust, and underbody components. Extended periods without movement can accelerate corrosion of brake components, such as discs and calipers, leading to binding or reduced braking performance, and may also cause fluid degradation in hydraulic systems or the 12V battery, which can fail prematurely if not cycled regularly. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that wear on consumables like tyres, fluids, and internal components may not be as pronounced as one might expect from higher-mileage vehicles, but this does not absolve the need for thorough checks to confirm this assumption. Given the vehicle’s age and the recurring MOT advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a meticulous inspection of the rear suspension and CV joints. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear axle, especially when transitioning between smooth and rough road surfaces, as these could indicate CV joint wear or misalignment. Inspect the offside rear shock absorbers for any signs of bulging or oil leakage around the mounting points, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest suspension misalignment or excessive camber. The nearside front CV joint boot failure from 2025 suggests that the boot material or seal quality may be a recurring issue; if the offside rear joint is similarly compromised, replacement will be necessary. Additionally, verify the structural integrity of the exhaust system for signs of rust or structural weakness, particularly around the rear suspension mounting points, as prolonged standing can exacerbate corrosion in these areas. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, check for corrosion on the brake discs, calipers, and wheel bearings, as well as the condition of the 12V battery and all fluid reservoirs for contamination or degradation. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the tyres, focusing on sidewall condition for signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements and that there are no signs of uneven wear, which could indicate suspension or alignment issues. The brake system should be inspected for signs of corrosion on the discs and linings, and the calipers should be checked for binding or excessive play, which could suggest standing corrosion or hydraulic fluid degradation. Fluid servicing should be timed according to manufacturer recommendations, with particular attention to the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, as these fluids can degrade over time even with low mileage. Finally, verify that all service book stamps are up to date, especially for the CV joints, suspension components, and exhaust system, to confirm that maintenance has been conducted as intended. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear on components like the engine, transmission, and drivetrain may be more pronounced, so a thorough mechanical check should be performed to identify any hidden issues.