2020 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · 4 OF

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the most recent inspection indicates a transition from perfect condition to developing mechanical wear. While it passed the January 2026 test at 39,460 miles, the tester identified three distinct advisories that were absent in previous years. The appearance of slight play in the offside front steering rack inner joint and thinning front brake pads suggests that the vehicle is beginning to require preventative maintenance after a period of stability. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use domestic vehicle, averaging approximately 6,600 miles per annum. There is a notable gap between the 2023 test at 20,462 miles and the 2025 test at 29,299 miles, during which the car covered relatively little ground. The jump of 10,161 miles between January 2025 and January 2026 shows an increase in usage, which likely correlates with the onset of wear noted on the steering and braking components. A buyer should prioritise a physical inspection of the steering system to assess the extent of the play in the inner rack joint. If this play progresses, it will lead to steering precision issues and uneven tyre wear. The front brake pads require an immediate measurement to determine if they are nearing replacement before damage reaches the discs. The damaged windscreen should also be monitored for spreading cracks that could eventually enter the driver's field of vision, which would necessitate a future MOT failure.