2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · PL67 GXM

The most recent MOT result for this Skoda Fabia is a pass recorded in April 2026, following a failure on the preceding day due to a split nearside front drive shaft constant velocity boot. While the vehicle has cleared its most recent inspection, the overall maintenance trend suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to component replacement. The history shows a recurring pattern of addressing critical failures only when they reach the point of MOT non-compliance, particularly regarding drivetrain components and tyre wear. Although the most recent failure was rectified, the frequency of advisories relating to tyres and braking components over the last three years indicates that the vehicle is often operated with consumables nearing the end of their legal or safe service life. With 107,864 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this vehicle has covered an average of 13,483 miles per year. This is considered high mileage for a small hatchback of this age, placing significant cumulative stress on mechanical components. High annual usage typically correlates with accelerated wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and damping units, as well as increased thermal stress on the engine and gearbox. The mileage profile suggests consistent, heavy use rather than long periods of standing, which is generally positive for preventing brake binding or battery discharge, but it necessitates a much more rigorous inspection of all wear-and-tear items to ensure the vehicle has not been run on a tight budget. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the drivetrain and suspension during a test drive. The recent failure of the nearside front CV boot is a significant indicator; you must listen for rhythmic clicking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel under load, which would suggest that grease has escaped and the joint itself is now damaged. Furthermore, the history of light oil misting on the front shock absorbers dating back to 2021 suggests that the dampers may be nearing the end of their effective life. During your drive, watch for excessive body roll in corners, nose-diving under braking, or any irregular bouncing, as these symptoms indicate failing damping characteristics. The braking and tyre history requires careful physical scrutiny. The record shows a persistent cycle of thinning brake pads and pitted or scored rear discs, so you should check for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal when slowing from higher speeds, which indicates warped or unevenly worn discs. Additionally, the frequent advisories for tyres worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges suggest potential issues with wheel alignment or camber. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for uneven wear patterns and ensure that the current set has ample tread depth across the entire width of the tyre. Given the high mileage, verify that the service history includes regular oil and filter changes to compensate for the increased engine wear associated with this usage level.