2021 Skoda Enyaq IV 80 Electric · RO71 EXM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-30 resulted in a failure categorised as "Dangerous Dangerous," specifically due to the near-side rear tyre exhibiting exposed ply or cords, which violates DVSA standard 5.2.3 (d) (ii). This failure is a critical flaw that poses a significant safety risk, as exposed tyre cords indicate severe internal damage likely caused by underinflation, sharp objects, or excessive wear. The vehicle’s previous MOTs in 2024-07-12 and 2025-06-16 passed without defects, suggesting that the tyre issue either developed rapidly or was missed in earlier inspections. The pattern of a single, severe failure within the past two years indicates either a lack of proactive tyre maintenance or an underlying issue with the vehicle’s handling or road surface interaction that may have contributed to the tyre’s deterioration. The recorded mileage of 54,546 miles for a 2021 model year represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,909 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. While this mileage is not exceptionally high for a five-year-old car, the sudden appearance of a tyre failure at this stage raises concerns about potential neglect or improper maintenance practices. Vehicles with lower mileage often reflect periods of reduced use, such as standing for extended periods, which can lead to standing corrosion in brake systems, fluid degradation, or battery inefficiency. Conversely, higher mileage could imply more aggressive driving, leading to accelerated wear on suspension components, drivetrain elements, and consumables like brake pads and tyres. The absence of a clear pattern in mileage accumulation does not mitigate the immediate safety concern posed by the exposed tyre cords, which should be addressed without delay. Given the critical nature of the tyre failure, the prospective buyer must prioritise immediate action to replace the near-side rear tyre with a new, compliant tyre meeting DVSA standards. The exposed cords suggest the tyre has reached its structural limit, and failure to rectify this will compromise road safety. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for unusual tyre noise, such as a grinding or scraping sound from the rear, which may indicate further internal damage or uneven wear. Additionally, they should check for excessive vibration or pulling to one side, which could signal misalignment or uneven tyre wear. Before proceeding with purchase, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s history for any previous tyre-related advisories or warnings, as recurring issues may point to underlying problems with the vehicle’s suspension or roadholding. In the interim, the buyer should avoid driving at high speeds or on rough surfaces until the tyre is replaced, as this could exacerbate the risk of sudden failure. For the buyer’s comprehensive inspection, they should also examine the vehicle’s remaining tyres for similar signs of wear or damage, ensuring all sides meet the minimum legal tread depth and that no cords are exposed. The rear tyre’s condition is particularly critical, as the failure highlights the importance of regular tyre maintenance. Beyond tyres, the buyer should inspect the vehicle’s brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, which are common in vehicles that stand for prolonged periods. This includes checking brake discs for uneven wear, corrosion, or binding, and ensuring brake fluid is fresh and free from contamination, as standing fluids can degrade over time. The battery should be tested for voltage output and clean terminals, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as corrosion or weak terminals can lead to starting issues. Lastly, the buyer should verify that the vehicle’s service history includes scheduled fluid changes, particularly for the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has been used sparingly, the buyer should also check for tyre sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur due to age-related environmental exposure.