2015 Skoda Yeti 1.2L Petrol · YY65 GYO

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 17 July 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a favourable current position. However, evaluating the maintenance trend across the recent test history reveals a pattern that warrants careful attention. Both the 2025 and 2026 tests were entirely clean, but the four preceding tests from 2021 to 2024 carried a series of advisories, particularly concerning the front shock absorbers. Light oil misting was noted on the nearside front in 2024, expanded to both front shock absorbers in 2023 and 2022, and then regressed to nearside only in 2024 before disappearing altogether. While shock absorber misting does not constitute an immediate failure, a recurring advisory across multiple consecutive tests typically indicates progressive seal degradation rather than a transient condition. The absence of further advisories in the most recent tests suggests the dampers may have been replaced or have stabilised, though this cannot be confirmed from the DVSA record alone. Against the backdrop of an eleven-year-old vehicle, the recorded mileage of 57,388 miles equates to roughly 5,217 miles annually, which is notably low for a car of this age. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT history that would indicate long periods off the road, though the modest annual accumulation suggests the vehicle may have spent considerable time standing between uses or have been driven predominantly on short, low-speed journeys. Low annual mileage in an older vehicle carries specific mechanical implications, including accelerated corrosion of brake discs from infrequent use, potential binding of front calipers, premature ageing of the 12V battery due to shallow discharge cycles, and time-based degradation of fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and the timing belt service interval, which on the Yeti is calendar-driven as well as mileage-driven. The timing belt on this platform typically requires replacement every four to five years or at set mileage intervals, so confirmation of the most recent replacement is essential regardless of the odometer reading. Given the recurring shock absorber advisories that have since cleared, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps or potholes, which would indicate worn top mounts, bottom bearings, or suspension bushes. Uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the inside or outside edges of the front tyres, can suggest degraded damping efficiency. Inspect the front shock absorber bodies for fresh oil residue, weeping around the piston shafts, or any sign of replacement such as cleaner condition relative to adjacent components. Additionally, given the 2021 dangerous failure for a nearside rear tyre with exposed ply or cords, accompanied by advisories for cracking and perishing on both front tyres, age-related rubber degradation should be a key inspection point. Examine all four tyres carefully for sidewall perishing, particularly checking the tread shoulder and sidewall flexing zones, even where tread depth appears serviceable. Beyond the advisory history, several practical checks are warranted given the low mileage and the vehicle's age. Verify the production date stamping on any current tyres, as tyres older than six years should generally be replaced regardless of remaining tread, and check the spare wheel or inflation kit integrity. Lift the bonnet and inspect the battery for voltage and date codes, as a battery of this vintage is likely approaching end of service life. Examine the brake discs for severe edge corrosion or pitting, which can cause vibration or grinding under braking if calipers have been seizing from lack of use, and consider a brake fluid test, as fluid is hygroscopic and degrades over time regardless of mileage. Confirm the timing belt replacement record with documented invoices, as well as the history of cambelt and water pump servicing. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular entries, ideally at annual or eighteen-month intervals, and request any supporting main dealer or specialist paperwork to corroborate the MOT history and validate the overall mechanical condition of this otherwise tidy and steadily maintained Yeti.