2015 Skoda Rapid 1.2L Petrol · YA64 CMY

A chronic oil leak and recurring front-end suspension wear define the mechanical history of this vehicle, which passed its latest MOT on 6 January 2026. The record shows a persistent trend of oil seepage noted across four consecutive years of testing, alongside a pattern of failure and subsequent advisories regarding the offside front suspension components. While the vehicle has maintained its roadworthiness, the repetition of these specific defects suggests a trend of gradual degradation in the engine seals and front-end linkages. The recorded mileage of 166,809 miles is high for an eleven-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 15,164 miles per year. This level of sustained usage typically results in accelerated wear on primary drivetrain components, suspension bushings, and braking systems compared to lower-mileage examples. The high accumulation rate indicates the vehicle has likely spent much of its life in high-intensity or long-distance use, increasing the probability of fatigue in rubber mounts and mechanical wear in the transmission and engine internals. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front suspension, as the MOT history reveals a progression from a failed anti-roll bar linkage in early 2025 to a worn suspension arm bush in 2026. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed cornering, which would indicate the suspension bushings have deteriorated further. The previous dangerous failure for worn nearside front brake pads and the advisory for pitted rear brake discs also necessitate a thorough inspection of the current braking hardware for scoring or uneven wear. The persistent oil leak, flagged in every test since January 2024, requires a physical inspection of the engine bay and the underside of the vehicle. Check for fresh oil residue around the gaskets and the sump, and look for evidence of oil spotting on the driveway where the car is parked. Given the mileage and the recurring nature of this advisory, it is important to verify whether the leak is originating from a minor seal or a more significant component, as this has remained an unresolved issue for several years.