2004 Skoda Fabia 1.9L Diesel · NG04 FEH

The most recent MOT test for this 2004 Škoda Fabia was conducted on 2026-09-01, though no results are provided for that date—only the preceding history is available. The overall maintenance trend over the past decade appears to be inconsistent rather than stable or improving, with a notable pattern of recurring major and advisory failures, particularly in the front brakes, anti-roll bar linkages, and lighting systems. The vehicle failed MOTs in 2020, 2021, and 2022, with persistent issues such as worn brake pads below the legal minimum, incorrect headlamp aim, and excessively worn anti-roll bar bushings, which suggests underlying mechanical fatigue or neglect in critical suspension and braking components. While there were passing MOTs in 2019 and 2020, the intervening failures indicate that the vehicle may not have been adequately serviced or maintained between tests, particularly regarding wear items like brakes and suspension linkages. The recorded mileage of 116,928 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 5,315 miles per year, which is far below the typical expectations for a car of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of stationary use, particularly if the vehicle was parked in damp or corrosive environments, leading to accelerated degradation of components like brakes, suspension, and electrical systems. The absence of significant mileage accumulation suggests that wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and fluids may not have progressed as rapidly as one might expect, but it also raises concerns about potential corrosion from standing, particularly in the brake system and undercarriage. The discrepancy between low mileage and the vehicle’s age highlights the need for a thorough inspection to rule out hidden issues from prolonged inactivity, such as standing corrosion on brake discs, caliper binding, or fluid degradation from lack of use. Given the recurring MOT failures and the vehicle’s age, the buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection focusing on the front brakes, anti-roll bar linkages, and suspension components. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding from worn brake pads, clunking from binding calipers or warped discs, and excessive play or rattling from the anti-roll bar bushings, which were repeatedly flagged as excessively worn. Inspect the brake discs for pitting, scoring, or significant warping, and check for uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or binding. The front headlamps and direction indicators should be tested for proper function and alignment, as these were major failure points in previous MOTs. Additionally, visually inspect the anti-roll bar linkages for excessive slack or corrosion, and examine the suspension for signs of bush wear or coil spring failure, which may contribute to the clunking noises reported in past tests. For a vehicle of this age and mileage profile, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the undercarriage for signs of corrosion, particularly around the brake calipers, wheel arches, and exhaust system, as prolonged standing can accelerate rusting. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing fluid can become contaminated or degrade over time, even if the vehicle hasn’t been driven. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from age rather than mileage, and verify the tread depth is above the legal minimum. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and terminal corrosion, as low usage can lead to battery failure or poor electrical performance. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, the buyer should request the service history to confirm the last oil change, filter replacement, and any scheduled maintenance, particularly for the brake system and suspension, which are critical areas of concern. If the service records are incomplete, a professional inspection should be arranged to address any potential hidden issues before purchase.