2014 Ssangyong Korando 2.0L Diesel · ND14 ABU

The Korando’s MOT history presents an unusual and concerning pattern of repeated failures without recorded defects, culminating in a clean pass only after two consecutive fails in February 2024—both at 130,174 and 130,177 miles. This suggests either a deliberate avoidance of minor advisories or a systematic oversight in testing, as no faults were ever logged despite the vehicle’s age and mileage. The most recent pass in February 2024, just 17 months ago, offers no reassurance given the lack of transparency in prior tests, particularly the back-to-back failures in March 2023 at 125,895 miles. The absence of defects does not equate to a well-maintained vehicle; it raises questions about whether critical wear—such as suspension components, brake binding, or exhaust emissions—was overlooked or deliberately suppressed. A buyer should treat this history as a red flag, indicating either negligent upkeep or potential test fraud. The mileage accumulation is steady but unremarkable, with the Korando covering roughly 10,848 miles annually over its 12-year lifespan—a rate consistent with average use. However, the gaps between tests are irregular: nearly two years elapsed between the December 2021 pass (122,005 miles) and the March 2023 failures (125,895 miles), suggesting the vehicle may have sat unused for extended periods or was driven inconsistently. The rapid mileage gain between the 2023 and 2024 tests (around 4,282 miles in just over a year) aligns with typical usage but does not mitigate the lack of documented maintenance. The sparse MOT record leaves critical questions unanswered about how the car was cared for during these intervals. Given the absence of recorded faults, a thorough pre-purchase inspection should prioritise components rarely flagged in MOTs but prone to silent failure in high-mileage SUVs. Check the suspension for worn bushes, degraded coil springs, or uneven wear in control arms, as these often degrade without immediate visibility. Inspect the brake system closely—particularly the rear calipers for binding, which can go unnoticed until severe—but also verify disc thickness and pad condition, as the MOT may not catch early wear. Structural integrity is another weak point; examine the chassis rails, subframes, and wheel arches for corrosion, especially in a vehicle this age, where rust can compromise safety without obvious signs. Finally, verify the exhaust system for leaks or damaged mounts, as emissions tests are rarely failed without prior advisories, and a clean pass here could mask underlying issues. The lack of documented defects does not absolve the vehicle of potential hidden problems.