2015 Skoda Octavia 2.0L Diesel · ST65 CCD

The most recent MOT inspection on 17 November 2025 resulted in a pass, but the recorded advisories indicate a slight downward trend in the vehicle's immediate mechanical condition. While the car has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the emergence of a noisy nearside rear wheel bearing and previous issues with shock absorber oil misting suggest that wear-and-tear components are beginning to reach the end of their service life. The maintenance history shows a pattern of addressing consumables such as tyres and brake components, but the recent transition from minor lighting defects to mechanical advisories regarding bearings and suspension suggests the vehicle is entering a phase where more significant component replacement may be required to maintain roadworthiness. With 110,156 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this Skoda Octavia has averaged roughly 10,000 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a UK diesel or petrol saloon of this age and suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive motorway cruising nor has it suffered from the detrimental effects of long-term stationary periods. This moderate mileage profile is generally favourable, as it implies a regular operating temperature has been reached frequently, which helps mitigate carbon buildup in the engine and prevents excessive brake disc corrosion. However, at this mileage, the cumulative wear on the drivetrain, suspension bushes, and various seals should be closely scrutinised. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the rear of the vehicle to assess the reported nearside rear wheel bearing. Listen for a low-frequency humming, droning, or grinding noise that increases in pitch as vehicle speed rises, particularly when turning in one direction or the other. You should also monitor the front suspension for any signs of instability or excessive bouncing, as the previous advisories regarding oil misting on the shock absorbers indicate that the seals are failing. If the dampers are leaking significantly, you may experience poor ride quality or uneven tyre wear. Furthermore, check the front brake performance for any shuddering or pulling to one side, given the history of brake imbalance and pitted discs recorded in previous years. Beyond the specific MOT advisories, a thorough physical inspection is necessary. Examine the tyres for uneven wear patterns, particularly on the edges, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or incorrect wheel alignment. Given the age of the vehicle, inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or fine cracking, which can occur even if tread depth is sufficient. Check the underside of the car for any fresh fluid leaks from the engine or gearbox, and verify that the service history supports the mileage, specifically looking for evidence of cambelt and water pump replacement which is critical for this engine's longevity. Finally, ensure all exterior lighting units are intact and functional to avoid the minor electrical issues noted in recent tests.