2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · OE18 CZN

The 2018 Škoda Fabia’s most recent MOT test on 2026-05-20 resulted in a clean pass, but the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring critical failures that suggest underlying mechanical wear and potential neglect. The two most recent failures—on 2025-04-10 and 2026-05-19—highlight persistent issues with the suspension system, specifically the front lower suspension arms, which were marked as excessively worn in both tests. Additionally, the 2025 failure included significant wear on both front and rear brake discs, indicating a history of either heavy braking or delayed maintenance. While the intervening MOTs (2024 and 2023) passed without defects, the frequency of these failures suggests either a structural design flaw in the suspension arms or a lack of consistent servicing, which could escalate into costly repairs if ignored. The presence of advisories such as windscreen wiper inefficiency and rear tyre perishing further underscores a trend toward deferred maintenance rather than proactive upkeep. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,640 miles at the time of inspection represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,580 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and model. However, the mileage data alone does not fully explain the mechanical wear observed, as lower mileage can sometimes reflect prolonged periods of inactivity, which exacerbates issues like standing corrosion, brake disc binding, and fluid degradation. Conversely, higher mileage would typically correlate with greater wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and tyres, but the Fabia’s history shows that even at this mileage, critical failures persist. The absence of significant mileage spikes between MOTs suggests that the vehicle may have been driven at a relatively steady pace, but the suspension and braking failures point to either a lack of regular servicing or underlying component fatigue that has not been addressed. Given the recurring suspension and braking defects, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front and rear suspension system, focusing on the lower arms, bushes, and coil springs for signs of excessive wear, cracks, or detachment. During a test drive, listen for abnormal clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at low speeds, as these could indicate failing suspension components or detached bushes. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by worn arms. The brake system should be inspected for signs of binding calipers, excessive brake disc corrosion, or a pulsating sensation when applying the brakes, which could indicate warped discs or hydraulic issues. If the suspension arms are confirmed to be worn beyond repair, replacement may be necessary, potentially costing several hundred pounds per arm. For the brake discs, which were significantly worn in the 2025 MOT, the buyer should verify the condition of the discs and pads during the inspection. Discs may show signs of glazing, pitting, or uneven thickness, which can compromise braking performance. If the discs are severely worn or damaged, they will need to be replaced, and the system should be serviced to ensure proper clearance and alignment. The rear tyres, which had advisories of cracking or perishing, should be closely examined for signs of dry rot, particularly around the sidewall, as this can lead to sudden failure. Tyres should also be checked for tread depth, ensuring they meet the legal minimum of 1.6mm across three-quarters of the tread pattern, and consider replacing them if they are approaching the end of their service life. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also inspect the engine bay for signs of fluid leaks, particularly from the suspension mounts or exhaust system, and check the fluid levels and condition of the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, even without significant mileage. Additionally, a test drive should include a check for exhaust emissions, as the Fabia’s catalytic converter or exhaust system may have accumulated deposits or corrosion over time, leading to reduced efficiency or failure to meet emissions standards. Finally, the battery and starter motor should be tested for functionality, as prolonged inactivity can lead to corrosion or a dead battery, which may require replacement.