2016 Skoda Octavia 2.0L Diesel · OY66 WPM

The most recent MOT on 7 October 2025 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that test. However, the advisory pattern over the past six years shows a persistent light misting of oil from the off‑side front shock absorber, recurring rear tyre wear concerns and emerging rear brake disc corrosion. While no failure points have been flagged, the consistency of these advisories suggests a maintenance picture that is essentially stable but with a few wear items that have not been fully addressed and could deteriorate if left unattended. With 80,527 miles recorded on a 2016 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8,000 miles per year, which is typical for a family saloon of this age. There are no large mileage spikes or long gaps that would imply periods of intensive use or prolonged storage, so the wear on drivetrain, suspension and braking components is in line with normal calendar and mileage‑related ageing rather than extreme abuse. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the off‑side front shock absorber; a visual inspection for oil seepage around the damper rod and a bounce test while the vehicle is stationary will reveal any loss of damping efficiency. Symptoms to watch for on a drive include a pronounced “clunk” when passing bumps, excessive body roll or a feeling of the front end not settling after a disturbance, all of which would warrant replacement of the shock absorber and possibly the associated top mount, which has also been noted as slightly loose. The rear tyres have been flagged for uneven inner‑edge wear and surface damage; examine the sidewalls for cracking, perishing or cuts, and verify that the tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit. Uneven wear may point to mis‑alignment, worn rear suspension bushings or a failing rear anti‑roll bar, so a professional alignment check is advisable. The rear brake discs are described as beginning to corrode and show early pitting, while front pads have been noted as wearing; the discs should be measured for thickness and surface condition, and any significant scoring or thinning should trigger disc replacement and fresh pads to avoid reduced braking performance or pedal pulsation. Beyond the specific advisories, the car’s age means time‑related checks are essential. Confirm that the 12 V battery is still within its service life, looking for any signs of sulphation or weak cranking, and consider a load test. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed at the recommended intervals, as fluids can degrade even when mileage is modest. Inspect the suspension bushings, coil springs and mounting points for any corrosion or looseness, especially if the vehicle has spent periods standing idle. Finally, cross‑reference the service book for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and any recorded tyre rotations, as a well‑documented service history will give confidence that the vehicle’s consumables have been managed appropriately.