2021 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · KP71 AAJ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 22 April 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past two years the MOT record shows a single failure in April 2025 for an off‑side front tyre bulge, which was a dangerous defect but was rectified before the subsequent test in October 2024 and again in the latest 2026 inspection. The pattern therefore reflects an overall stable maintenance regime with the lone tyre issue having been addressed, and the recent pass suggests the vehicle is presently in good roadworthy condition. With a recorded mileage of 33 587 mi for a 2021 model, the average annual distance is roughly 6 700 mi, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a five‑year‑old family SUV. There are no indications of unusually high mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity that would raise concerns about accelerated wear on drivetrain components. The modest mileage suggests that consumables such as brake pads, clutch (if manual) and engine oil are likely to be within normal service intervals, though age‑related degradation should still be considered. The tyre failure recorded in 2025 warrants a focused inspection of all four tyres. Verify that the off‑side front tyre has been replaced with a tyre of the correct size and load rating, and examine the remaining tyres for sidewall cracks, tread depth below 1.6 mm, or signs of uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. While on a test drive, listen for any thudding or vibration that may indicate a tyre that is out of balance or developing a hidden separation, and feel for any pull to one side that would suggest alignment issues. Also check the spare tyre and the condition of the wheel rims for corrosion or damage. Given the vehicle’s age of five years, a comprehensive visual and tactile inspection is advisable even though the MOT history is clean. Inspect the suspension components for cracked or perished rubber bushes, especially at the front lower arms and rear trailing arms, and verify that the coil springs show no signs of sagging. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Test the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, as batteries can lose capacity after several years of standing. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil, coolant and brake fluid changes, and consider a full fluid flush if the last recorded service exceeds 24 months, as fluids degrade with time even when mileage is low.