2022 Skoda Enyaq IV 80 Electric · SP71 VML

The most recent MOT test conducted on 2026-02-03 resulted in a passing outcome, but the presence of three tyre wear advisories—each indicating offside front, nearside rear, and offside rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear—suggests a pattern of uneven tyre usage that may reflect underlying suspension or alignment issues. While the vehicle passed the test, these advisories are not failures but critical indicators that require attention to prevent further tyre damage, which could lead to premature tyre replacement and potential road safety concerns. The prior MOT on 2025-01-29 was clean, indicating that the current advisories are relatively recent and likely tied to either recent driving conditions or a developing mechanical problem rather than a long-standing maintenance oversight. The absence of any failures in the intervening period supports a stable maintenance trend, but the advisories warrant immediate investigation to determine whether the wear is due to normal driving habits or a mechanical fault that could worsen with continued use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 39,937 miles at the time of the latest MOT represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,984 miles, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a four-year-old electric vehicle in the UK. This mileage distribution is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, suggesting a moderate and consistent usage profile rather than prolonged periods of idleness or heavy duty use. However, the presence of a nail in the offside rear tyre—while not a failure—could imply exposure to road debris or potholes, which may have contributed to the observed tyre wear patterns. While this does not directly indicate mechanical wear on the vehicle’s suspension or steering components, it underscores the importance of checking for any related damage, such as potential suspension bush degradation or misalignment, that could exacerbate tyre wear over time. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent action should be to address the tyre wear advisories promptly. Uneven tyre wear, particularly when accompanied by edge wear, often signals misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Before proceeding with tyre replacement, a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension system is essential, including checking the condition of coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for signs of wear or failure. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, and observe for excessive play in the steering wheel or uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate alignment problems. If the suspension components appear worn or damaged, this could lead to further failures, such as binding calipers or warped brake discs, which would necessitate additional repairs. Beyond the immediate tyre concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle, focusing on areas prone to wear or standing corrosion given the vehicle’s age and mileage. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as electric vehicles are particularly susceptible to battery degradation over time, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Check for any signs of corrosion around the battery terminals, connectors, and undercarriage, which could indicate water ingress or poor maintenance practices. Additionally, since the vehicle is an electric model, ensure that the charging system and software updates are up to date, as these can affect performance and reliability. For fluid-based systems, such as the brake and cooling circuits, consider checking for any signs of fluid degradation based on the vehicle’s age, even if the MOT has not flagged specific failures. Finally, if the vehicle has been driven regularly, the service history should be reviewed to confirm that all time-based maintenance, such as brake pad replacement and fluid servicing, has been completed according to manufacturer recommendations.