2017 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Diesel · SM66 NNV

The defining mechanical theme of this 2017 Skoda Fabia is a chronic front suspension bush issue that escalated from minor advisories in 2021 and early 2024 to a dangerous failure in late 2024, alongside persistent light oil misting on the front dampers. On the most recent test dated 22 September 2025 the vehicle passed, but both front shock absorbers were flagged for light oil misting, continuing a pattern observed at the prior pass. The lower suspension arm pin or bush was first noted as worn in January 2021, reappeared as worn in January 2024, and by October 2024 had deteriorated to the point where the offside unit was classified as dangerous with likely detachment. The following day the vehicle was presented again and passed, indicating a rectification was carried out, but the underlying wear pattern of these front-end components clearly spans multiple test cycles. Elsewhere the record shows rear brake disc wear advisories surfacing in December 2021 and December 2022, and a minor wiper blade defect in 2021, but otherwise the vehicle has achieved four clean passes with no recorded defects. With 32,552 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Fabia has covered around 3,600 miles annually, which is notably low for its age and class. The MOT record reflects this usage pattern, with only eight tests recorded across the lifetime and a gap between January 2021 and December 2021 suggesting the car may have seen limited use during that period. Low annual mileage reduces wear on high-stress items such as clutch, gearbox internals and engine bearings, but can accelerate deterioration of rubber and protective finishes through extended standing time. Given the MOT evidence, this lighter use has not prevented mechanical degradation in the suspension, which typically suffers from age-related rubber hardening and corrosion regardless of mileage. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection points are the front suspension components that have dominated the advisory history. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, rough surfaces and during full-lock turns, and feel for any vagueness or wandering in the steering, as worn lower arm pins or bushes can introduce play that affects tracking and tyre wear patterns. Inspect the front shock absorbers for visible oil seepage down the damper body or accumulated grime on the surrounding spring and strut top, as the persistent misting noted across two consecutive tests suggests the units are nearing the end of their service life even though they have not yet been recorded as a failure. Check the inner and outer edges of the front tyres for uneven wear, which is a common secondary symptom of worn suspension linkages, and confirm there is no excessive vertical or lateral movement when the wheels are manually rocked with the car raised. The rear brake discs, first flagged in 2021 and again in 2022, should also be examined for lipping, scoring and minimum thickness, particularly as they will have covered additional mileage since the last recorded inspection. On the road, monitor for any vibration through the brake pedal under firm application, which would indicate disc runout or warping associated with worn rear rotors. Finally, given the long gaps between tests and the modest mileage, verify that the braking system has been exercised regularly to prevent corrosion of the rear caliper slides, and confirm the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed, as age-based replacement schedules apply regardless of low mileage. The MOT history shows a vehicle that has remained roadworthy through each test, but the recurring front suspension and damper concerns warrant a targeted physical inspection before purchase.