2014 KIA SPORTAGE1.7L Diesel

The current roadworthiness of this Kia Sportage is concerning due to a clear trend of recurring mechanical neglect. While the vehicle passed its most recent inspection on 6 February 2026 at 142,561 miles, the presence of advisory items indicates a decline in maintenance standards. The steering rack inner joint play, which appeared in 2025 and persisted into 2026, suggests a failure to address steering component fatigue. Furthermore, the parking brake efficiency issues noted in the latest test echo a similar failure from 2022, pointing to a systemic lack of proper braking system servicing rather than isolated incidents. The vehicle has covered 142,561 miles over twelve years, averaging roughly 11,800 miles annually. This usage pattern is consistent and typical for the model, indicating the car has been used regularly rather than sitting idle. However, the frequency of MOT failures related to basic consumables like tyres and washer fluid suggests that the previous owners prioritized only the bare minimum required to pass the test. The repeated failure to replace tyres before they drop below legal limits is a primary indicator of a reactive, rather than preventative, approach to vehicle upkeep. Prospective buyers must prioritize a thorough inspection of the steering and braking systems. The steering rack inner joints require immediate professional assessment to determine the extent of the play and the condition of the steering rack itself. You should also verify the functionality of the parking brake mechanism, as the efficiency issues flagged in both 2022 and 2026 indicate that the cables or shoes likely require a full overhaul. Given the history of tyre neglect, check all four tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could signify underlying alignment or suspension geometry issues that have been ignored for some time.