2017 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · AP17 FXB

The most recent DVSA test on 30 September 2025 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were recorded. The first noted an oil leak, but not excessive, and the second flagged a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge. Looking at the broader pattern across recent tests, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with a gradual accumulation of advisories rather than a clean record. The 2024 test carried five advisories covering oil leak, front tyre wear, rear tyre damage, and light oil misting on both rear shock absorbers, while the 2022 and 2023 tests were relatively clean aside from minor brake pad and windscreen items. This pattern suggests a vehicle that is being maintained to a passable standard but is beginning to show wear-related advisories consistent with its age and mileage, warranting closer scrutiny of the flagged components. With approximately 109,970 miles recorded over nine years, this Kuga has covered roughly 12,200 miles per year, which is above the national average and points to consistent, regular use rather than long periods of standing. High annual mileage typically accelerates wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, suspension bushes, and drivetrain components, and the recurring brake pad advisories on both front corners in mid-2022 align with this usage profile. The steady accumulation of mileage between tests indicates the vehicle has been in active service, which is generally positive for mechanical condition as seals, oils, and moving parts have remained in regular operation, though it does mean that major service items such as timing chains, clutches, and turbo components may be approaching or past their expected replacement intervals for this platform. For a prospective buyer, the recurring oil leak advisory across two consecutive tests is a particular point of attention. On a 2017 Kuga, the source is commonly the rocker cover gasket, turbo oil feed or return lines, or the sump gasket, and although the tester deemed it not excessive, a leak left unaddressed will inevitably progress. It is worth inspecting the engine bay for fresh oil residue, checking the undertray for drips, and asking when the leak was last investigated. During a test drive, listen for any ticking from the top end, watch the oil level over a short period, and note any smell of burning oil from the exhaust or underbonnet, particularly after the engine has warmed up. A compression test or an endoscope inspection via the oil filler cap would provide further reassurance. The tyre and suspension advisories also merit careful physical inspection. The recurring nearside and offside front edge wear suggests possible wheel alignment or suspension geometry issues, such as worn wishbone bushes, a failing track rod end, or a sagging coil spring, so the tyres should be examined for uneven tread pattern and the suspension should be checked for clonks over speed bumps and excessive play when the wheels are rocked by hand. The light oil misting on both rear shock absorbers noted in 2024 warrants a visual check for progression to a heavier weep, which would indicate replacement is due. Beyond the recorded defects, given the vehicle's age and high mileage, a thorough buyer inspection should also include verification of recent cambelt or timing chain service history, brake disc condition and caliper slide operation, coolant and brake fluid replacement dates, and the health of the 12V battery. The Ford Kuga is also known for potential rear differential and clutch wear on higher mileage examples, so a steady test drive with smooth clutch take-up and no unusual drivetrain vibration is essential before purchase.