2016 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · ND66 FFS

The most recent MOT inspection on 08 September 2025 resulted in a pass, though the vehicle is carrying several advisories that suggest a trend of age-related degradation. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the recent history shows an increase in advisory items compared to the clean records seen between 2019 and 2021. The maintenance trend appears to be shifting from a period of stability into a phase where rubber components and hydraulic seals are beginning to fail due to age rather than high mileage. The presence of recurring advisories regarding suspension bushes and now shock absorber misting indicates that the vehicle is entering a period where more frequent component replacements will be necessary to maintain roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 27,804 over approximately ten years, this Skoda Fabia has averaged roughly 2,780 miles per year, which is significantly below the UK national average. This low-usage profile suggests the vehicle has likely been used for short, infrequent trips or has spent extended periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it presents specific risks associated with lack of use. Components that rely on regular movement to stay lubricated or to prevent degradation, such as brake calipers, suspension bushings, and seals, can suffer more from age and environmental exposure than from physical distance travelled. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the current advisories regarding the nearside front shock absorber and the nearside rear tyre. The light misting of oil on the shock absorber is an early sign of seal failure; you should listen for any knocking or thudding noises from the front end when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as this indicates the damping efficiency is compromised. The advisory regarding tyre cracking or perishing is a direct consequence of the low mileage and age. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, the rubber compound can become brittle and lose structural integrity. During a test drive, check for any vibrations through the steering wheel or unusual road noise, and visually inspect the sidewalls for deep cracks which could lead to a sudden blowout. Furthermore, the history of suspension bush wear and brake fluctuation warrants a thorough inspection. The previous failure of the offside front lower suspension arm bush suggests that the rubber components in the front end are reaching the end of their serviceable life. During your inspection, look for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the inner edges, which would indicate misaligned geometry caused by worn bushes. Given the low annual mileage, you should also check for signs of brake disc corrosion or binding calipers, which often occurs when a car sits idle. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, has been conducted according to the manufacturer's intervals rather than solely based on mileage, as fluid degradation is a significant risk for vehicles with this usage profile.