2015 Skoda Fabia 1.4L Diesel · SO65 LXE

The 2015 Skoda Fabia holds a current MOT valid from 12 March 2026, issued at 59,110 miles. The maintenance trend is mixed. A failure on the same day as the pass indicates a retest following repair of excessively worn front suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides. That rectification cleared a genuine mechanical fault, which is a positive indicator of recent attention. However, the underlying condition of the front suspension components was clearly deteriorating. The 2025 test at 56,848 miles recorded those same bushes as worn but not yet excessive. By March 2026 at 59,110 miles, they had degraded to a failure point. This progression suggests accelerated wear in the last two years and 2,262 miles. Front shock absorber oil misting has appeared consistently since at least March 2023, initially isolated to the offside, then affecting both sides by 2025. This is a chronic, worsening issue rather than a one-off repair. The recorded mileage of 59,110 over roughly eleven years equates to approximately 5,374 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows a steady, linear accumulation from 52,083 miles in March 2023 to 59,110 miles in March 2026, covering 7,027 miles across three years. There are no alarming gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record. This pattern suggests consistent, light use rather than long periods of standing, which reduces the risk of deterioration from inactivity such as seized brakes or flat-spotted tyres. The low annual mileage is generally favourable for structural preservation, though it does not eliminate wear on safety-critical components entirely. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The recurring advisories and the March 2026 failure point directly to the front suspension arm pins and bushes. Check for any play, knocking, or uneven tyre wear that would confirm these components require replacement again. The persistent misting of oil on both front shock absorbers is a strong indicator that the units are past their serviceable life and will likely need replacing soon to restore proper damping and handling. Inspect the front brake discs closely for scoring and thickness, as the repeated advisories suggest they are being replaced prematurely or that there is an underlying issue, such as binding calipers or incorrect pad specification. The rear registration plate deterioration is a minor cosmetic point but worth noting for a future MOT. Finally, examine the underside for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and the subframe, as the 2023 advisory for an insecure under tray raises the possibility of impact damage or neglected underbody condition.