2021 Ford Kuga ST-Line Edition 1.5L Petrol · A22 TAT

The most recent DVSA MOT test for the 2021 Ford Kuga ST-Line Edition was conducted on 2026-06-10 and resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory regarding the offside front tyre exhibiting significant wear close to the legal limit and being worn on the edge. This advisory, which appears in the 2026 test, suggests that the tyre’s tread depth has reached a critical stage and may require replacement soon to prevent hydroplaning or reduced grip, particularly in wet conditions. Comparing this to the previous MOT records, the vehicle’s maintenance history remains stable, with no recorded failures or recurring defects over the past five years. The near-side rear child seat advisory from 2024 is unrelated to the vehicle’s roadworthiness and merely indicates a minor practical inconvenience rather than a mechanical or safety concern. The recorded mileage of 62,499 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a usage rate of approximately 12,500 miles annually, which is notably higher than the typical mileage for a similarly aged car in the UK. Such elevated mileage can accelerate wear on critical components, including suspension elements such as coil springs, bushings, and dampers, as well as brakes, tyres, and the drivetrain. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active use, potentially exposing it to more frequent exposure to road conditions, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical stress. Buyers should be aware that this usage profile may necessitate more frequent attention to consumables like brake pads, tyre tread depth, and fluid degradation, particularly in fluids such as coolant and transmission oil, which can degrade over time even with moderate mileage. During a physical inspection, the buyer should prioritise examining the front tyre’s condition, as the advisory indicates the offside front tyre is critically worn. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, which may signal alignment or suspension issues, and verify that the remaining tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s width. Listen for any unusual noises from the front suspension during a test drive, such as clunking or rattling, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. Additionally, check for fluid leaks around the front wheels, particularly under the vehicle, as tyre wear close to the legal limit often coincides with potential tyre sealant or inner liner degradation. For the remaining components, the buyer should inspect the rear tyre treads and sidewalls for signs of excessive wear or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure and compromise safety. Pay particular attention to the rear tyres, as the child seat advisory from 2024 may have inadvertently obscured inspection points, but this does not affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness. Test the brakes by applying firm pressure while driving at a moderate speed and listening for any grinding, squealing, or pulsating sensations, which could indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Verify that the brake discs are free from corrosion or binding, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, as this can cause rust buildup on the discs and calipers. Finally, check the vehicle’s service history for any recorded fluid servicing, especially for coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, a comprehensive fluid check and potential top-up may be advisable, along with a visual inspection of the battery terminals for corrosion and ensuring the 12V battery holds a charge when static.