2011 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · AD61 VTA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a concerning trend of deferred repairs. While it passed its latest test in September 2025 at 175,236 miles, the test initially failed on multiple fronts including lighting, steering, braking, and exhaust. The presence of play in both steering rack inner joints and thin front brake pads at the time of failure suggests that the owner only addresses mechanical faults when forced by an MOT failure rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 175,236 miles over 15 years, the Kuga has averaged approximately 11,700 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK road usage patterns for an SUV of this age. The mileage record shows consistent use, with roughly 9,000 miles covered between October 2024 and September 2025, and another 8,000 miles in the year preceding that. This steady accumulation puts significant stress on high-wear components like the suspension and braking system, which is reflected in the recurring mechanical issues noted in the history. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the steering system, as the tester flagged play in both front steering rack inner joints during the 2025 test. This is a critical component that affects handling precision and safety. The exhaust flexi pipe leak noted in the latest advisory should also be monitored, as these components often deteriorate rapidly and lead to future emission failures if not replaced promptly. Additionally, the nearside rear tyre showed signs of perishing and cracking as as recently as September 2025, indicating the rubber is aging regardless of tread depth.