2003 Skoda Fabia 1.2L Petrol · WU03 AEV

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-08-21, at 168,211 miles, confirms it passed without defects, though it had previously failed on 2025-08-15 at just 168,178 miles—a gap of only 33 miles. This pattern of consecutive failures and passes suggests either a last-minute rectification of a minor, intermittent issue or a tester’s oversight in the failed test. The trend over the past three years remains stable, with no recurring advisories or defects beyond the two recent failures, both of which occurred within days of each other. The absence of any major structural or safety-related advisories in the last four tests indicates the vehicle has not undergone significant mechanical neglect, though the abrupt failure before passing raises caution about potential undocumented issues. The recorded mileage of 168,211 miles over 23 years aligns with typical usage for this age, averaging around 7,300 miles annually. There are no extended gaps in mileage suggesting prolonged storage, nor are there sudden spikes that would indicate aggressive driving. The most notable observation is the two consecutive MOT tests in August 2025, separated by only 6 days, which is unusual and may imply a rushed or incomplete pre-test repair. The previous intervals between tests—around 12 months—suggest consistent annual servicing, though the lack of service records means no insight into maintenance beyond MOT compliance. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components, particularly the bushes and coil springs, which are prone to fatigue at this mileage. The repeated failures in August 2025 warrant scrutiny of the braking system, as binding calipers or worn brake discs could explain the abrupt test outcome. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on wheel arches, sills, and subframe areas for corrosion, which often develops silently over two decades. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive wear, as these are common failure points in older vehicles. While the MOT history shows no major red flags, these areas demand close examination to confirm they have been properly maintained.