2019 Skoda Octavia 1.5L Petrol · SEJ 449

The 2019 Skoda Octavia presents a stable and currently sound roadworthiness profile following its most recent MOT on 9 June 2026 at 28,768 miles, where it passed with zero defects. This clean sheet is a significant improvement over the preceding years, indicating that the previous owner addressed the suspension issues that had been a recurring theme. The maintenance trend is clearly improving, moving from a pattern of minor advisories and a failure to a fully compliant pass. The vehicle has covered approximately 4,110 miles per year, which is notably low for a seven-year-old car. The mileage progression is consistent and gradual, with no sudden jumps or suspicious gaps between the annual tests. The 2025 test cycle is particularly telling: the car failed on 17 June 2025 at 24,771 miles due to a serious oil leak on the nearside front shock absorber and a worn offside front tyre, then passed a second test on the same day at 24,774 miles after a three-mile re-test. This confirms the shock absorber was replaced and the tyre renewed immediately, demonstrating prompt corrective action rather than neglect. Despite the clean 2026 result, the history of shock absorber oil misting and a serious leak across the 2024 and 2025 tests suggests the front suspension components endured a period of degradation. A prospective buyer should physically inspect the front struts and dampers for any fresh oil residue, weeping seals, or uneven bounce, as these units may have been replaced recently but their longevity depends on the quality of the parts fitted. The repeated tyre wear advisories, particularly the 2023 flag for both front tyres worn to the legal limit and a perishing offside rear tyre, point to possible alignment or tracking issues. Have the wheel geometry checked and examine the inner edges of all four tyres for uneven wear patterns. Given the low annual mileage, also inspect the brake discs and pads for surface corrosion from prolonged standing, and check the exhaust system and underbody for any early signs of corrosion that can develop on vehicles used predominantly for short journeys.