2018 KIA Carens 1.7L Diesel · AT64 JHT

A significant braking system failure occurred during the most recent inspection on 28 April 2026, which required immediate remedial work to address a dangerous defect regarding the offside rear brake disc. This failure, which also included a major defect for an excessively binding offside rear service brake and an advisory for thin brake pads, interrupted a previously clean sequence of pass results dating back to November 2023. While the vehicle successfully passed its retest on the same day, the transition from multiple years of defect-free results to a dangerous classification indicates a sudden degradation of the rear braking components. The vehicle exhibits an unusually low mileage profile for its age, having covered only 34,713 miles over approximately eight years. This equates to an annual average of roughly 4,339 miles, which is significantly lower than the typical UK average for a vehicle of this class. Such low usage patterns can sometimes result in components being subjected to less frequent mechanical cycling, which may contribute to the sudden onset of binding or corrosion-related issues in braking assemblies that are not regularly used to clear surface oxidation. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the rear braking assembly during a road test to ensure the issues identified in April 2026 have been fully resolved. Listen for any scraping or grinding noises from the rear of the vehicle when moving at low speeds and feel for any unevenness or pulsing through the brake pedal during deceleration. If the offside rear brake remains problematic, it may manifest as a subtle pull to one side when applying the brakes or a noticeable heat build-up from that specific wheel after a short journey. Beyond the brakes, the low annual mileage suggests that other components typically subject to heavy wear, such as suspension bushes or steering linkages, may not show significant fatigue, but should still be inspected for any signs of seizing or rubber perishing due to age rather than distance travelled. Ensure that the vehicle tracks straight under gentle braking and that there are no knocks or clunks from the suspension when navigating uneven road surfaces, as the combination of low usage and sudden component failure warrants a thorough check of all moving mechanical parts.