2019 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · AV69 KUP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a persistent failure to address suspension components. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 42,290 miles passed, it noted nearside rear suspension arm bush wear and trailing arm bush delamination. This indicates that previous issues identified in earlier tests were either not fully rectified or merely monitored. The recurring nature of these suspension faults across multiple years suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to mechanical upkeep. At seven years old, the recorded mileage of 42,290 miles represents an average usage of approximately 6,000 miles per year. This low mileage profile is consistent with short-distance city driving. The data shows consistent annual testing intervals with roughly 4,500 miles driven between the October 2024 and October 2025 tests. While low mileage generally suggests less wear on the drivetrain and engine, it can lead to the degradation of rubber components like bushings, which aligns with the primary failures seen in the MOT record. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front and rear suspension geometry. The history highlights repeated issues with the nearside rear and offside front lower arm bushes, as well as a detached nearside front lower arm bush in 2023. You should check for further tearing or cracking in the rubber and any play in the control arms. Additionally, the clutch master cylinder leak noted in October 2024 should be verified to ensure it was replaced and bled, as hydraulic leaks in this area can lead to sudden clutch failure. The parking brake system also requires attention due to records of excessive lever movement in both 2023 and 2024. Although the vehicle passed the most recent test, the history of handbrake travel suggests the mechanism or cables may be reaching the limit of adjustment. Ensure the nearside rear tyres, which were nearing legal limits in 2023, have sufficient tread depth and do not show uneven wear that would indicate further alignment issues.