2004 Skoda Fabia 1.9L Diesel · VR52 DAD

The most recent MOT test on 30 September 2025 resulted in a pass, although five advisories were recorded. These included slight corrosion to the ferrules on both rear brake hoses, a slightly damaged nearside front tyre, and corrosion noted on both front coil springs. The presence of these advisories alongside a passing result suggests the vehicle is currently roadworthy but is exhibiting age-related wear that warrants attention. Looking back over the past four years of testing, the maintenance trend shows a degree of inconsistency. The vehicle passed in January 2022 and January 2024 with only minor advisories, but the February 2023 test produced a fail with multiple dangerous and major defects including a detached lower suspension arm ball joint, excessively binding offside rear service brake, and dangerously low tread on both front tyres. Such a record indicates a pattern where critical safety components have been allowed to deteriorate to a serious state before being addressed, and a prospective buyer should be alert to the possibility of further neglected items emerging on future testing. With a recorded mileage of 177,019 miles over approximately 22 years, the vehicle has covered roughly 8,000 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests regular use rather than prolonged periods of standing. However, the MOT record shows a notable gap between July 2019 and January 2021, indicating either a lapse in testing or potential inactivity during that interval, which could have accelerated corrosion on brakes, discs, and exposed underbody components. Conversely, the consistent annual mileage since 2021 implies the vehicle has been in active service, placing normal wear expectations on clutch, brakes, suspension bushes, and drivetrain mounts given the high overall odometer reading. Given the recurring advisories relating to steering rack inner joint play, track rod end wear, and front coil spring corrosion, a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly is essential. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar linkages or deteriorating suspension bushes, and pay attention to any vagueness or knocking through the steering wheel which may indicate worsening rack inner joint wear. Inspect the front coil springs visually for advanced surface corrosion and check both front tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, as this often points to misalignment or worn suspension geometry. The track rod end play noted in January 2024 should be rechecked, as such joints can deteriorate rapidly and lead to an MOT failure if not replaced promptly. Also examine the front lower suspension arm ball joints carefully, particularly on the nearside, as a previous dangerous defect indicated imminent detachment which suggests the component may have been replaced but the surrounding arms could be fatigued or corroded. Regarding the braking system, the recurring advisories on front brake binding and the major failure for excessively binding offside rear brake suggest caliper slide pins or piston seizure may be present. On a test drive, observe whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking or feels as though the handbrake remains partially engaged, which would indicate sticking calipers. Given the high mileage and age, the brake discs are likely worn close to their minimum thickness and may exhibit lipping or corrosion around the outer edge; request a measurement of disc thickness during any inspection. Tyres should be examined closely for age perishing, as a 2004 vehicle may still be running rubber that is over five years old, particularly the slightly damaged nearside front item flagged in September 2025. Beyond the test record, it is prudent to verify the timing belt replacement history on this 1.2 or 1.4 engine, confirm recent replacement of coolant and brake fluid, and ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as a vehicle of this vintage frequently suffers electrical gremlins from aged wiring and degraded battery performance. Finally, examine the underbody and structural areas for advanced corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, as the coil spring corrosion advisories may be symptomatic of broader surface oxidation that warrants close attention.