2017 Skoda Octavia 2.0L Diesel · OV67 TCU

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2017 Skoda Octavia was conducted on 13 November 2025, resulting in a pass, though three advisory items were recorded against the vehicle. The presence of advisories on an otherwise clean test suggests a maintenance pattern that is stable but showing early signs of wear on components approaching the end of their serviceable life. Historically, the vehicle has passed every annual MOT since 2020 without any prior recorded advisories, indicating a generally well-maintained record prior to the latest test. However, the clustering of advisories on the most recent examination regarding the front shock absorber and both rear tyres points to components that warrant close attention from a prospective buyer before purchase. With 153,160 miles recorded over approximately nine years of service, this Octavia has accumulated an annual mileage of roughly 17,000 miles, which is notably higher than the average for its age bracket. The mileage progression between MOT tests shows fairly consistent high usage year on year rather than any prolonged periods of standing, which means the vehicle has likely been subjected to regular mechanical wear rather than the calendar-based deterioration often associated with low-mileage or garage-kept examples. Such sustained high mileage places additional demand on the clutch, drivetrain, suspension bushes, engine oil seals, and turbo components. It is therefore prudent to assume that consumables such as timing chains, water pumps, and dual-mass flywheels may already have been replaced, or alternatively may be due for attention in the near future. Regarding the advisories from November 2025, the light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber indicates the early stages of seal failure; this is unlikely to affect the test outcome presently, but it will progress over time and eventually lead to a fluid leak and reduced damping performance. On a test drive, one should listen for clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces and observe whether the vehicle exhibits excessive body roll or pitching under braking and cornering, both of which would indicate compromised damping. The advisories on both rear tyres for slight damage, cracking, or perishing deserve particular scrutiny given the vehicle's age, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age irrespective of tread depth. Inspect the sidewalls closely for hairline cracks, check the manufacturing date codes on the sidewalls, and replace the tyres as a matter of course if they are over five years old or showing significant perishing, particularly because aged tyres compromise wet braking performance and safety even when tread depth remains legal. Given the high accumulated mileage, a thorough inspection should also include verification of recent servicing records, including confirmation that the cambelt or timing chain, spark plugs, and all major fluids have been replaced at manufacturer-recommended intervals. With the brake discs noted as worn and pitted in 2020, it is reasonable to expect that a brake overhaul involving replacement of discs and pads has since been carried out; physical inspection of the current brake components through the wheels for lipping, corrosion, or uneven wear is essential, along with a check for any binding calipers that may have developed from infrequent use or seized slide pins. The 12V battery should be tested for state of health, as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years and high-mileage vehicles with frequent short journeys place additional strain on charging system longevity. Finally, examine the underside of the vehicle for any signs of fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, or power steering system, and verify that all dashboard warning systems are functioning correctly during a live test drive to identify any underlying faults not visible on the MOT record alone.