2021 Skoda Karoq 1.5L Petrol · YF21 ABH

The 2021 Škoda Karoq’s latest MOT test on 2026-08-25 reflects a stable but cautious maintenance profile, with all previous tests passing without critical failures. While the advisories present—particularly the recurring near-side rear brake pad wear, shock absorber misting, and tyre defects—do not threaten roadworthiness, they indicate a pattern of wear that demands vigilance. The near-side rear brake pads are approaching the legal limit, with only 1.1mm of friction material remaining, which could lead to reduced stopping performance if not addressed soon. The misting of oil in the front and rear shock absorbers suggests progressive degradation, with potential for reduced damping efficiency and increased road noise or clunking upon impact, especially at speed or over rough surfaces. The tyre advisories—including near-side rear cracking and off-side front edge wear—highlight areas of concern; the rear tyre damage may compromise grip in wet conditions, while the front tyre’s edge wear could indicate alignment or camber issues, leading to uneven tyre wear or hydroplaning risk if uncorrected. The vehicle’s mileage of 43,091 miles over five years represents an annual average of approximately 8,618 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class, particularly if it has been used primarily for commuting or moderate road travel. This usage rate suggests moderate mechanical wear, but the presence of multiple advisories—especially the rear suspension and brake issues—may warrant closer inspection of driving habits and potential underlying causes. The gaps between MOT tests suggest the vehicle has not been driven excessively between inspections, which could mitigate some wear, but the consistent advisories point to underlying component fatigue. For instance, the rear suspension arm pin or bush deterioration from 2025 could have progressed subtly since then, potentially leading to binding or excessive movement if not serviced, which would manifest as clunks or uneven suspension travel during a test drive. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate actions should focus on the brake system and suspension, given their recurring advisories. Inspect the near-side rear brake pads and discs thoroughly, checking for warping or glazing, which can occur with thin pad material and may cause a grinding or shuddering sensation during braking. Listen for any unusual noises from the rear brakes, particularly when applying the pedal firmly, and verify that the brake fluid level is correct and free from contamination—low fluid or air in the system could exacerbate pad wear. The misted shock absorbers require attention; test the vehicle’s handling by driving over bumps and listening for signs of excessive rebound or poor damping, such as a hollow clunk or a vehicle that feels less responsive. If the shocks are indeed failing, this could lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced ride comfort, and potential steering instability at higher speeds. Additionally, the cracked rear tyre should be replaced immediately to prevent sudden blowouts or reduced traction, and the off-side front tyre’s edge wear should prompt a check of wheel alignment and camber settings to prevent further deterioration. Beyond these immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid integrity. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals and cables, and test its charge capacity by attempting to start the engine—older batteries may struggle to provide sufficient power, particularly in cold conditions. Inspect the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of rust or corrosion, especially around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension components, as standing for prolonged periods can accelerate deterioration. Finally, since the last MOT was clean, the buyer should verify that the service history includes the mandatory fluid changes—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—at the recommended intervals, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure or reduced performance. If the service book is missing or incomplete, arrange for a professional inspection to confirm the vehicle’s true maintenance status.