2021 Ford Kuga ST-Line X Phev CVT 2.5L Hybrid electric · AV21 EKF

This Ford Kuga PHEV has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness trend over the past two MOT cycles, with the most recent test on 1 April 2026 at 73,127 miles passing without defects—a clean result that suggests no urgent mechanical failures at the time of inspection. However, the preceding test in April 2025 at 59,324 miles revealed multiple advisories, including oil misting on the near-side rear shock absorber, a near-legal tread depth on the same tyre (now likely beyond the legal limit), a nail in the tyre, and significant play in both rear anti-roll bar ball joints. While these issues were classified as advisories rather than failings, their recurrence in the same components indicates a pattern of neglect or deferred maintenance. The 2024 test at 43,773 miles introduced a single advisory for a distorted front wheel, which, if left unaddressed, could contribute to uneven tyre wear or steering inaccuracies. The recorded mileage of 73,127 miles over five years—approximately 14,625 miles annually—is notably high for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either consistent heavy use or prolonged periods of inactivity between services. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs (just over a year) aligns with the legal requirement, but the jump from 43,773 to 59,324 miles in that period implies rapid accumulation, which could accelerate wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components. The absence of any MOT tests prior to 2024 means there is no historical context for earlier maintenance patterns, making it impossible to determine whether the 2025 advisories were isolated incidents or part of a longer-term issue. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear suspension, particularly the shock absorbers (where oil misting suggests internal leakage) and the anti-roll bar linkages (which exhibited play in 2025). The near-side rear tyre from that period, now likely worn beyond the legal limit, should be replaced, and the wheel alignment checked for any distortion effects. The front suspension should also be examined for signs of uneven wear or damage, especially around the wheel bearing area. Given the nail in the rear tyre from 2025, a thorough tyre inspection—including for embedded debris or uneven tread—is essential. While the 2026 MOT passed without issues, the history indicates areas where maintenance may have been deferred, and a professional pre-purchase inspection would be prudent to confirm the current condition of these components.