2016 Skoda Superb 2.0L Diesel · RK61 ARK

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but four advisories were issued which should not be overlooked. Both rear coil springs were noted as corroded, and both front tyres were recorded as worn close to the legal limit with edge wear. While none of these items constituted an immediate failure, the simultaneous appearance of suspension and tyre advisories on a single test suggests that consumable wear is beginning to accelerate. The preceding tests in 2023, 2024, and 2025 were passed with no defects recorded, indicating a generally well-maintained vehicle until this point, but the latest outcome suggests the car is entering a phase where age-related deterioration of rubber, springs, and braking components will require closer attention. The pattern over the full MOT history is otherwise one of stable compliance, with only minor advisories in 2020 (front and rear brake pads wearing thin) and 2021 (an offside front tyre advisory), so there is no chronic recurring fault, but the latest test does show early signs of wear progression. With 89,823 miles recorded over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged around 8,982 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. The MOT intervals show roughly annual testing, with no extended gaps that would suggest prolonged standing, although the mileage increments between tests have not been provided, so it is not possible to confirm whether the usage has been steady or punctuated by periods of inactivity. A consistent annual average of this level is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as it implies regular operation, which helps prevent issues associated with long-standing vehicles such as seized brakes, perished seals, and battery degradation. However, the mileage is now substantial for a Superb, and components subject to wear proportional to distance travelled, including clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel if applicable, and drivetrain mounts, will have experienced considerable working life. Regarding the advisories raised at the most recent test, the corroded rear coil springs are an age-related concern rather than mileage-related, and corrosion of this nature tends to progress, particularly in areas where road salt is used during winter months. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or rattling from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, and inspect the springs visually for signs of advanced corrosion, flaking, or fracturing, as severely compromised springs can affect ride height and handling stability. The front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and on the edges suggests either a tracking misalignment, worn suspension bushes or top mounts allowing camber change, or simply that the tyres are due for replacement. Edge wear in particular can indicate geometry issues, so it would be prudent to have the wheel alignment checked. The previous brake pad advisories from 2020 suggest pads were nearing the end of their service life at that point, meaning replacements should already have been carried out; however, brake discs may now be approaching a thickness limit or showing lipping and corrosion, especially given the car's age and typical UK road conditions. Beyond the recorded advisories, a prospective buyer of this ten-year-old Superb should undertake a number of age-appropriate physical checks. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking, perishing, or blistering caused by age-related rubber degradation, even if tread depth remains adequate, and check the spare wheel or inflation kit is present and serviceable. Examine the brake discs for signs of severe corrosion, particularly around the outer edges and hub faces, which can indicate a binding caliper or prolonged standing. Verify the 12-volt battery's age and condition, as batteries beyond five years old are prone to failure, and confirm whether the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed according to Skoda's schedule, as this is a significant age-related maintenance item. Check all fluid levels and colours, paying particular attention to coolant strength for frost protection, brake fluid moisture content, and the condition of the engine oil, and review the service book for consistent stamp history at appropriate intervals. Finally, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion, paying particular attention to suspension arms, subframes, and brake lines, would be highly advisable given the corrosion already noted on the rear springs.