2016 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · WJZ 6

A decade‑long MOT history that has remained free of failures underscores a solid baseline of roadworthiness, and the September 2026 test confirms a clean pass with no defects recorded. The only recorded concerns were two tyre advisories in 2021, both noting slight damage or cracking on the off‑side and near‑side front tyres, but no subsequent failures have been logged, indicating that the issue was either resolved or has not progressed to a safety‑critical level. At 45,285 miles the vehicle averages roughly 4,500 miles per year, which is low for a ten‑year‑old model. The consistent annual testing pattern shows no gaps, suggesting the car has been regularly driven rather than sitting idle for extended periods. Light usage generally translates to reduced wear on consumables such as brake pads, clutch, and suspension components, yet age‑related degradation of rubber and metal seals can still be present despite the modest mileage. The front‑tyre advisories from 2021 merit a focused inspection. Examine the tread depth on both front tyres, looking for uneven wear, sidewall cracks, or bulges, and verify that the tread meets the legal minimum of 1.6 mm. During a test drive, listen for a high‑pitched whine or feel for vibration that intensifies with speed, which could indicate a developing tyre defect or imbalance. Also check for any pulling to one side, which might reveal underlying alignment or suspension issues that have not yet triggered an MOT failure. Beyond the tyres, a thorough pre‑purchase check should address age‑related items that the MOT does not capture. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers for looseness or excessive play, and listen for clunks over bumps. Verify that the brake pedal feels firm and that pads and discs show even wear without scoring. Examine the under‑carriage and wheel arches for corrosion, especially around the subframe and exhaust system, and confirm that all lighting, indicators, and windscreen wipers operate correctly. A full visual and functional assessment will reveal whether the low‑mileage, historically clean MOT record translates into a mechanically sound purchase.