2016 Skoda Octavia 1.6L Diesel · SO65 NFU

The vehicle presents a mixed maintenance profile with a recent trend of resolving mechanical failures through successive testing. The most recent test on 22 December 2025 at 81,814 miles resulted in a pass, following a failure just one week prior at 81,743 miles. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the December 2025 failure highlighted an offside rear service brake that was excessively fluctuating and a non-functioning nearside rear position lamp. The successful retest suggests these specific electrical and braking issues were addressed, though the windscreen damage and expired TMS sealant remain noted advisories. The mileage accumulation appears consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,181 miles per year. The records show steady progression from 67,066 miles in December 2023 to 74,620 miles in December 2024, and finally 81,814 miles in December 2025. This regular usage pattern suggests the car has not been subject to long periods of inactivity, which helps mitigate certain types of corrosion or seal degradation associated with stationary vehicles. A prospective buyer should focus physical inspections on the front suspension and braking components. The December 2024 test at 74,620 miles flagged excessively worn rear bushes on both nearside and offside front lower suspension arms. Although the vehicle passed the subsequent 2025 tests, the history of pitted and scored rear brake discs in late 2024, combined with the brake fluctuation noted in late 2025, indicates that the braking system requires close scrutiny. I recommend checking for any residual vibration through the pedal or steering and verifying that the suspension bushes have been replaced rather than merely adjusted. The recurring mention of windscreen damage and sealant issues suggests a need to inspect the glass integrity and peripheral seals. While these are often minor, they can lead to water ingress if left unaddressed. The overall mechanical history shows a pattern of reactive maintenance where faults are identified and rectified to meet MOT standards, but the frequency of suspension and brake issues suggests the vehicle is entering a phase of life where wear-and-tear components require more frequent replacement.