2016 KIA Optima 1.7L Diesel · AV11 KAZ

This ten-year-old Kia Optima presents an exceptionally clean DVSA roadworthiness record, with five consecutive MOT passes and no advisories or defects recorded across the available history. The most recent test on 12 February 2026 was a clean pass, continuing an unbroken sequence of trouble-free annual examinations stretching back to at least late 2021. While the complete absence of advisories could suggest either a well-maintained vehicle or one with components that have simply not yet reached the threshold for advisory notation, the stability of the pattern year on year indicates that no chronic deterioration has been flagged at any test point. This consistency points to a structurally sound example rather than one hiding underlying defects from prior inspections. Recorded mileage stands at 109,263 miles, accumulated over a ten-year period at roughly 10,900 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class. The mileage is not extreme and should not, in isolation, raise concerns about accelerated mechanical wear on major drivetrain components. It is worth noting, however, that the testing history is not perfectly annual; there is a gap of slightly over thirteen months between the December 2022 test and the November 2021 test, and a further extended interval before that, suggesting the vehicle may have had intermittent use or storage periods during its earlier life. The mileage progression between recorded tests would benefit from verification on the dashboard at the point of sale to ensure continuity and confirm no discrepancies. Despite the clean test history, a buyer should approach this Optima with the usual diligence applied to any high-mileage family saloon. Given the absence of recorded advisories on suspension, brakes, or corrosion, particular attention on a test drive should focus on listening for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn control arm bushings or top mount deterioration common to this age of vehicle. Brake pedal feel should be assessed for any sponginess or excessive travel, and the steering checked for vibration, pulling, or looseness that could point to worn wishbone linkages or track rod ends even if these have not yet reached advisory threshold. At speed, any vibration through the steering wheel may suggest front brake disc warping, while uneven tyre wear on inspection could reveal alignment or suspension geometry issues not yet flagged. The powertrain and underbody should not be overlooked simply because the MOT record is clean. On a test drive, listen for any timing chain rattle on cold starting, and check for smooth, consistent gear changes with no synchro crunch, particularly on the manual variant if fitted. From underneath, inspect the exhaust system for any signs of corrosion or blowing joints, particularly at the flex pipe and rear silencer mounting points, and examine the subframe, suspension arms, and brake pipes for any surface rust or weeping that may have developed since the last test. Finally, verify that all dashboard warning lamps illuminate correctly on ignition and extinguish promptly, and confirm the mileage reading against the service history documentation to ensure the recorded figure is consistent with the vehicle's documented life.