2019 Skoda Octavia 1.5L Petrol · WN19 YOO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 11 March 2026, was passed but returned three advisories concerning the front lower suspension arm bushes and light oil misting from both front shock absorbers. Over the previous five‑year period the vehicle has shown a consistent pattern of front‑end wear – tyre tread approaching the legal limit and recurring shock‑absorber oil leakage – with a single major failure (central rear seat‑belt) that was rectified before the next test. The overall trend is therefore stable in that no current failures remain, yet the repeat nature of the front‑suspension and tyre advisories indicates that wear is progressing and will soon require corrective maintenance. At 66 860 miles the Skoda Octavia is roughly seven years old, giving an average annual mileage of about 9 500 miles. This figure sits squarely within the normal UK usage range and suggests the car has not been subjected to extreme short‑trip abuse or prolonged periods of inactivity. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the MOT record, implying regular use rather than long storage, which means wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be in line with the recorded mileage. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front tyres and suspension. Inspect the tread depth on both front wheels; any measurement below 3 mm or signs of edge wear will require immediate replacement. While on the road listen for clunking or knocking when turning or going over bumps, which can indicate excessive play in the lower arm bushes that have already been flagged as worn. The light oil mist from the front shock absorbers suggests seal deterioration – the shocks may still be functional but are approaching the end of their service life and could develop a full leak, leading to reduced ride quality and increased load on the springs. Verify that the central rear seat‑belt now operates smoothly and that the latch mechanism engages firmly, as a previous major defect can sometimes recur if the replacement parts were not correctly fitted. Beyond the recurring front‑end items, conduct a thorough age‑related inspection. Check all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulging, especially if the original set dates back several years. Examine the under‑carriage for rust, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as the UK climate accelerates corrosion. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and assess its charge‑holding ability, since a vehicle of this age may have a battery nearing the end of its typical three‑year service life. Verify that brake discs are free of deep scoring or excessive rust and that pads have adequate thickness; any shudder or pulsation under braking would merit a closer look. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes at the manufacturer‑specified intervals, as time‑based fluid degradation can affect engine and transmission reliability even if mileage is moderate.