2017 Skoda Citigo 1.0L Petrol · SA17 LSB

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2017 Škoda Citigo was conducted on 2026-08-25 and resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory pertaining to the near-side rear tyre exhibiting signs of damage, cracking, or perishing. This advisory, recorded under clause 5.2.3 (d) (ii), suggests the tyre’s rubber has deteriorated beyond acceptable limits, likely due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements or excessive wear. While the vehicle has otherwise maintained a clean MOT history over the preceding five years, the presence of this advisory indicates a recurring or persistent issue that should prompt further scrutiny. The absence of further failures or advisories in the intervening MOT tests suggests that the tyre’s condition may be a one-off concern related to specific usage or storage conditions rather than a systemic problem, but the buyer should treat it as a critical warning sign requiring immediate attention. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 101,866 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,318 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a nine-year-old car. This figure does not suggest either excessive wear or unusually light use, though the lack of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests could imply either consistent driving habits or periods of prolonged stationary storage. From a mechanical standpoint, such mileage levels generally place moderate demands on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres, but the wear on these parts tends to be more pronounced in vehicles that accumulate higher annual mileage or undergo frequent stop-start driving. The advisory on the near-side rear tyre, however, stands out as a potential red flag, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in damp or humid conditions, as this can accelerate rubber degradation. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should begin by examining the near-side rear tyre for any signs of further deterioration beyond the existing advisory. The tyre should be checked for cracks, delamination, or areas where the rubber has lost its structural integrity, particularly around the sidewall and tread. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear tyre area, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which could indicate underlying issues like a damaged bead seal or embedded debris. Additionally, verify that the tyre’s tread depth remains above the legal minimum of 1.6mm, as insufficient tread can compromise hydroplaning safety and may require replacement sooner than anticipated. Beyond the tyre, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems, given the vehicle’s age and mileage. Focus on the rear suspension, particularly the near-side components, as the advisory suggests potential wear or damage in that area. Check for excessive play or clunking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal misalignment, steering issues, or suspension failure. For the brakes, visually inspect the rear brake discs and linings for signs of corrosion, warping, or excessive wear, and listen for a grinding sound during braking, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact from worn linings or damaged discs. It is also advisable to have the brake fluid level and condition checked, as old brake fluid can degrade brake performance and safety. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should verify the service history for fluid replacements, particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 50,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years, whichever comes first. Additionally, check for any visible signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the rear axle and suspension components, which could indicate failing seals or gaskets.