2009 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · VO09 SFJ

The 2009 Škoda Fabia’s most recent MOT test on 2025-05-29—just over a year ago—confirms it remains roadworthy, though the immediate preceding test on 2025-05-28 (a mere 24-hour gap) failed without recorded defects, suggesting either a procedural anomaly or a last-minute inspection. The vehicle’s history shows no recurring mechanical failures, but the repeated failures at identical mileages (86,729 and 106,304) in 2023 and 2025 respectively, despite identical pass dates, warrant scrutiny. The absence of advisories or defects in the most recent pass indicates no ongoing issues with suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers, which are common failure points at this mileage. However, the pattern of back-to-back tests without clear faults raises questions about whether the vehicle was driven to failure or if the tester overlooked subtle issues. The recorded mileage of 106,308 miles over 17 years equates to roughly 6,253 miles annually, a rate consistent with typical light-to-moderate usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in service intervals, though the lack of pre-MOT maintenance records means we cannot confirm whether routine checks—such as brake pad replacement, fluid top-ups, or suspension servicing—were performed between tests. The identical mileages at failure points (86,729 and 106,304) suggest the vehicle may have been driven until it failed inspection, rather than being serviced proactively. This pattern implies basic upkeep may have been inconsistent, particularly for wear-and-tear items like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. Given the absence of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, including coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, as these are prone to fatigue at this mileage. The brakes, particularly the rear calipers and discs, should be checked for uneven wear or binding, despite the MOT’s clean record—recurring failures at identical intervals often point to underlying issues. Tyre tread depth and structural integrity should also be verified, as the lack of advisories in recent tests suggests no recent attention to this critical safety component. Finally, a visual inspection for corrosion—particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe—is essential, as rust can compromise structural integrity without always being flagged in an MOT.