2018 Skoda Kodiaq 2.0L Diesel · ML68 VLS

The most recent MOT on 21 July 2026 recorded a pass but highlighted a major defect that had been rectified – the near‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint was deemed excessively worn and required replacement. The test also noted slight play on the off‑side front ball‑joint and light oil misting from both front shock absorbers, both advisory items. Earlier in the same session the vehicle had initially failed for the same ball‑joint fault, indicating that the defect was addressed before the final pass. Apart from that, the MOT record shows a generally clean trend from 2021 to 2025, with only isolated advisories, suggesting that the vehicle’s maintenance has been reasonably consistent, though the recent suspension work points to a need for close monitoring of front‑end components. At eight years old the car has logged 62,254 miles, averaging roughly 7,800 miles per year. This usage is typical for a family SUV of this age and does not suggest any periods of excessive short‑term mileage accumulation that would accelerate wear on drivetrain or braking components. The mileage is low enough that major wear items such as timing‑belt or chain, clutch, and major engine components are unlikely to be near the end of their service life, but the relatively modest annual distance does mean that many parts may have been subject to longer stationary periods, which can affect rubber and fluid condition. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the front suspension. Check for any play in the ball‑joints by applying firm pressure to the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; any clunk or movement beyond a few millimetres is a sign of wear returning. Examine the shock absorbers for oil seepage around the mountings and look for uneven bounce when the front wheels are pressed down – a soft or overly harsh response can indicate deteriorating damping. The front brake discs were flagged in 2022 as pitted but not weakened; verify disc thickness with a micrometre or gauge and feel for any pulsation or shudder under firm braking, which would suggest resurfacing or replacement is imminent. The rear‑seat belt buckle and the supplementary restraint system warning that failed in 2022 should be tested – ensure the buckle clicks firmly and that the SRS warning lamp does not illuminate on ignition; a lingering fault could indicate a sensor or airbag module issue that may be costly to rectify. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are prudent. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot, or uneven wear that could stem from long periods of storage; even with modest mileage, tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester or have it checked at a garage, as batteries can lose capacity after several years of intermittent use. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals – look for milky coolant, discoloured brake fluid or oil that appears gritty, all of which can compromise cooling and braking performance. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, filter replacements and any major service milestones; a well‑documented service history will give you confidence that the vehicle has been cared for and that any wear items have been addressed in a timely manner.