Hi,

Not 100% sure this is the right place for this question, so feel free to point me in the right direction.

I'm looking at buying my first Fabia VRS and have seen one for sale (Silver, Registration PL05YCD) at David Ian Skoda, Morecombe. However, it seems to have some damage on the Front Passenger side corner, a cracked fog light lens and a large scratch where the front bumper meets the side panel, which has been touched up. Just wondering whether anybody knows how this could of happened, or whether it's something I should worry about? Also, there are some scratches that have been touched up just above the VRS kick-plate on the drivers side.

Unfortunately I didn't have the hindsight to take photo's, but thought perhaps some of you could offer some advice?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Well we could only speculate as to the cause of the damage, just like you. It's probably just hit a badger or something. If it's only cosmetic, not too much to worry about. Having said that, if you're not in a rush to buy and you notice faults with it, leave it. It will always bug you and be on your mind and there are plenty of good VRS models to be had out there.

I would be more concerned about potential underlying damage. If you are not sure what to look for, take someone along who does or get an independant check. They can seem pricy, but it's not a lot when you compare it to the price you are paying for the car, or the potential cost of having to fix a problem and/or being left with an unsaleable wreck.

Lastly, I would say just because it's a dealer, don't expect it's any better than any other VRS you see. I learned the hard way and nearly bought an absolute shed of a Civic Type-R from a Honda main dealer a few years ago. I assumed all would be hunky dory because the car was only a few years old and it was 'Honda approved' - but it had been in a nasty accident and badly repaired.

Oh, and being a pedant, I can't help but say I think you meant foresight, not hindsight :p.

I was looking at hindsight thinking there was something wrong with it, I just couldn't put my finger on it :p! At least I know why now!

Thanks for your advice, I'm going to go have another look at it later today, I find things are sometimes easier to spot on second viewing!

As previously said, if in doubt leave it and look for a better car. There are plenty out there.