2017 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · SC17 GGU

Front‑end wear dominates the recent MOT picture: the 2026 test recorded advisories on both front brake discs for scoring and on the off‑side front suspension arm pin/bush, while the preceding six years of tests showed no defects at all. This contrast signals emerging front‑axle wear after a long period of clean roadworthiness, and the most recent pass still leaves those advisories open for monitoring. At 42,238 mi the Fabia averages roughly 4,700 mi per annum, well below the typical UK usage for a nine‑year‑old hatchback. The low annual accumulation suggests light duty or periods of inactivity, which can be gentle on power‑train components but may also allow corrosion or rubber deterioration to progress unnoticed. A notable gap exists between the July 2021 test and the January 2023 test, during which the vehicle would have been subject to the standard 12‑month MOT interval; the absence of a recorded test for 2022 could indicate a missed service or a temporary off‑road period, both of which merit a closer look at any age‑related wear. When inspecting the brakes, measure the disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification and look for uneven wear patterns or deep scoring that could cause pulsation under hard braking. During a road test, listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a judder when applying the front brakes, especially under repeated stops, as these symptoms often precede disc failure. Examine the front suspension arm pins and bushings for excessive play by rocking the front wheels at the wheel‑rim level; any clunk or knock over bumps, or a feeling of looseness in the steering, would corroborate the advisory and may require bush replacement. Given the isolated front‑end advisories, budgeting for new front brake discs and a fresh front suspension arm bush set is prudent before committing to purchase. A thorough test drive that stresses the front brakes and probes the steering for any looseness, combined with a visual inspection of the disc surfaces and suspension mounting points, will give a realistic picture of imminent maintenance needs and help avoid unexpected out‑of‑pocket costs shortly after acquisition.