2018 Skoda Fabia 1.0L Petrol · YL67 FKA

A recurring weakness in the front suspension and shock absorber system dominates the MOT record, and the latest test on 23 February 2026 recorded a dangerous‑level failure for the near‑side front suspension arm, indicating a high risk of detachment under load. This follows a series of advisories for light oil misting from both front shock absorbers since 2023 and a serious fluid leak noted in early 2025, suggesting progressive deterioration rather than an isolated incident. In addition, the vehicle has repeatedly failed for safety‑critical items such as the off‑side front position lamp, horn, and front brake pads that fell below the minimum thickness, highlighting a pattern of multiple component‑level concerns that have not been fully resolved. At 95 876 miles for an eight‑year‑old 2018 Skoda Fabia the average annual mileage is just under 12 000 mi, which sits within normal private‑use expectations. The MOT history shows no prolonged gaps in testing, with annual checks each February (and an extra January test in 2024) providing a consistent picture of wear progression. The mileage level places the vehicle well into the service‑interval range for suspension bushings, shock absorber seals, and brake wear items, meaning that the components flagged in the records are likely approaching the end of their functional life rather than being early‑stage issues. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front suspension geometry: listen for clunking or knocking when driving over bumps, feel for any looseness or play in the steering wheel, and check that the wheel alignment remains steady. The oil misting reported on both shock absorbers usually manifests as a faint oil film on the wheel wells or a slight loss of damping, so a test drive should reveal a softer ride or increased body roll compared with a healthy Fabia. The near‑side front suspension arm that was deemed dangerous to detach should be examined for cracked or corroded mounting points, and any excessive movement in the arm or its bushings must be verified by a qualified mechanic before the car is considered safe for regular use. The braking system also demands scrutiny: the front brake pads were recorded as less than 1.5 mm in early 2023, a condition that typically produces a high‑pitched squeal, reduced braking efficiency, and a longer stopping distance. Inspect the pads for uneven wear and verify that the discs are not heavily scored or pitted, as noted in the advisory. Finally, confirm that the off‑side front position lamp, horn, and the supplemental restraint system warning lamp are all operational, as their failure was flagged as a major defect in the most recent MOT. Rectifying these items will be essential to bring the vehicle back to a road‑worthy state and to avoid recurring safety failures.