2012 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · HL12 AMY

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on January 6, 2026, confirms it remains roadworthy but with a pattern of recurring, low-severity issues that suggest inconsistent maintenance. The January 2026 failure—just one mile before passing—highlights persistent brake pad wear and a non-functional repeater light, while the January 2025 test revealed thin front pads and a defective registration lamp. Though no major structural or safety-critical failures have been recorded, the repeated advisories on brake linings and tyres indicate a lack of proactive replacement, particularly for components that degrade predictably with mileage. The January 2024 entry introduces corrosion concerns in the rear sub-frame, a critical area that, if left unaddressed, could compromise structural integrity over time. The mileage progression of approximately 6,252 miles annually aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the interval between tests has been irregular. Notably, the gap between the January 2025 and January 2026 tests—just one day—suggests either a rushed retest or a deliberate attempt to pass after a failure. The 2023 test at 83,145 miles shows all four tyres were worn close to the legal limit, a red flag for tyre rotation and balancing practices. The absence of any tests between January 2023 and January 2024—covering 1,350 miles—implies either a prolonged period of non-use or a deliberate bypass of the MOT window, which could mask other undocumented issues. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the brake system, particularly the rear pads and calipers, given the repeated advisories on wear. The 2024 corrosion advisory on the rear sub-frame warrants visual confirmation of rust penetration, especially around welds and mounting points, as this could affect alignment and handling. Tyres should be checked for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate suspension or wheel alignment issues, while the front brake pads—frequently flagged—demand measurement to confirm remaining thickness. The non-functional repeater light from the 2026 failure is minor but signals potential neglect of electrical components, so the entire lighting circuit should be tested. Finally, the suspension bushes and coil springs should be examined for cracking or excessive play, as these are often overlooked but critical for safety.