2009 Skoda Roomster 1.4L Diesel · ST09 OJA

A recent ABS warning lamp and a binding front brake condition flagged as a major failure in August 2025 reveal that the braking system is the most pressing mechanical concern on this 2009 Skoda Roomster, despite the vehicle being re‑tested and passing the same day with only advisory notes. The pattern of recurring front‑inner brake‑disc wear, a severely deteriorated near‑side front CV boot and the presence of a steel wheel on one corner, all noted across the last two MOTs, indicates that the front braking and drivetrain components have required attention and may still be marginal. At 88,308 mi the car averages roughly 5,200 mi per year, a mileage level that is low for a seventeen‑year‑old vehicle. Such limited use can mean that wear items such as brake pads, discs and suspension bushings have not been exercised to the extent that mileage alone would predict, while age‑related degradation of rubber seals and corrosion can progress regardless of distance travelled. The MOT history shows annual testing with no multi‑year gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than stored for long periods. When inspecting the brakes, verify that the ABS warning lamp remains extinguished and that the brake pedal feels firm without pulsation or a soft, spongy travel. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing when applying the brakes, and note any pull to the near‑side front wheel, which could indicate the previously reported binding. Examine the front inner discs for scoring or excessive wear and confirm that the CV boot is intact, free of cracks or grease leakage that could presage joint failure. The steel wheel fitted on the near‑side front should be checked for balance and for any vibration at higher speeds, as mismatched wheel types can affect handling and brake performance. Additional checks should include the off‑side front tyre, previously reported close to the legal tread limit, to ensure sufficient depth and even wear, and the registration‑plate lamp, which was recorded as inoperative in 2023. While the MOT record shows no structural or exhaust failures, a visual inspection of the suspension arms, bushings and any signs of corrosion around the wheel arches is prudent, given the vehicle’s age. Confirm that the brake discs on both sides are of comparable thickness and that there is no uneven wear that could re‑introduce a binding condition. Addressing these specific items will give a clearer picture of the current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.