2013 Skoda Rapid 1.6L Diesel · SN13 HWY

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in March 2026 at 128,061 miles passed, it introduced a new advisory for a nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. This follows a significant failure in March 2024 where multiple mechanical components required immediate attention, suggesting that the vehicle is often driven until faults reach a critical point or fail an annual test before being addressed. The recorded mileage of 128,061 miles over 13 years reflects a consistent average usage of approximately 10,000 miles per annum. However, the data shows a notable spike in usage between March 2023 and March 2024, where the car covered over 15,000 miles in twelve months. This period of heavy use likely correlates with the rapid degradation of components seen in the 2024 failure, including the fractured coil spring, deteriorated CV boots, and significant wear on the rear brake discs and tyres. A buyer must focus specifically on the steering and front suspension assembly. The 2025 test flagged play in both nearside and offside steering rack inner joints, and the 2026 advisory notes a worn anti-roll bar linkage. These issues indicate developing mechanical wear in the steering geometry which could affect handling and tyre life. Additionally, the buyer should inspect the front drive boots to ensure the previous replacements in 2024 have held up, and verify the parking brake efficiency following the total failure of that system two years prior.