2015 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · SC15 UMJ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 19 December 2025, though this followed a failure just two days prior. The overall maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventative, with a recurring pattern of failures and advisories related to the braking system and suspension components over the last four years. While the current certificate is clean, the history suggests a vehicle that is often repaired only when a defect becomes a legal failure point, which may indicate a lack of proactive servicing. With 114,746 recorded miles over approximately eleven years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 10,431 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a car of this age and class, suggesting a consistent duty cycle without prolonged periods of standing or excessive long-distance motorway accumulation. At this mileage, the drivetrain and chassis are entering a phase where wear on consumables and structural rubber components becomes more pronounced, necessitating a closer inspection of the vehicle's overall mechanical health. The MOT history reveals significant recurring issues with the braking system, specifically regarding parking brake efficiency, brake lever travel, and axle imbalance. A prospective buyer should pay close attention during the test drive to any shuddering under braking or a lack of firmness in the handbrake lever. The history of binding calipers and pitted discs suggests the braking system has been a point of weakness. Furthermore, the repeated failures and advisories concerning front suspension bushes and shock absorber leaks indicate that the front end has undergone considerable wear. Listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring, as these are classic symptoms of perished suspension bushes. Beyond the suspension and brakes, the record of a rough offside rear wheel bearing in late 2025 and a previous oil leak advisory warrants further investigation. During the test drive, listen for a rhythmic humming or droning sound from the rear, which could indicate that the bearing replacement was substandard or that the nearside bearing is also nearing the end of its life. The mentioned oil leak should be verified by inspecting the engine bay and the underside of the sump for fresh residue. Given the mileage, it is also imperative to verify the service history for timing belt and water pump replacements, as these are critical maintenance items for this engine that, if neglected, could lead to catastrophic failure.