2022 KIA Sorento 3 HEV AWD Auto 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · AV72 RBF

The most recent DVSA examination on 16 October 2025 resulted in a PASS, which is a positive indicator of the vehicle's present roadworthy condition. However, the history is somewhat unusual in that the test a day earlier, on 15 October 2025, resulted in a FAIL with three major defects recorded. The combination of a pass and a fail within forty-eight hours suggests that remedial work was carried out between the two tests, and the advisories listed on both entries are essentially identical, implying that the technician flagged the same tyre-related concerns on each occasion. The major defects relating to a nearside front tyre cut exposing ply or cords, a malfunctioning Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, and an Electronic Stability Control warning lamp fault have presumably been rectified to allow the pass to be issued, though no subsequent MOT has yet been recorded to confirm longer-term resolution. Overall, the trend does not yet demonstrate a worsening or improving pattern due to the brevity of the history, but a prospective buyer should establish documentary evidence that the major defects were professionally repaired. The recorded mileage of 31,113 miles over approximately four years equates to a modest annual average of around 7,778 miles, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a family-oriented hybrid SUV of this age. This level of use is not particularly high, which is mechanically favourable, as it generally implies reduced wear on the braking system, clutch or torque converter components, and general drivetrain consumables. The mileage appears consistent and progressive, with no obvious gaps that would suggest the vehicle has been laid up for prolonged periods. That said, even moderate annual mileage in a hybrid powertrain does not eliminate the need for time-based servicing, and components such as brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V auxiliary battery can deteriorate through calendar ageing irrespective of distance covered. Given the failure on the preceding test, the prospective buyer should carefully verify that the three major defects have been properly and permanently addressed. The nearside front tyre cut deep enough to reach the ply or cords is a serious safety issue that would have necessitated replacement, and confirmation of a new tyre should be sought along with an inspection of the remaining tyres for age-related sidewall cracking, as rubber compounds typically begin to perish after five to six years regardless of tread depth. The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fault could stem from a faulty sensor, often caused during tyre changes, and the buyer should ensure the system now functions correctly via a live dashboard readout. The Electronic Stability Control warning lamp defect is more concerning, as it can indicate an issue with a wheel speed sensor, yaw sensor, steering angle sensor, or even a hydraulic modulator fault, all of which require diagnostic verification rather than a simple reset. On a physical inspection and test drive, particular attention should be paid to the behaviour of the stability and traction control systems, ensuring no warning lamps reappear and that the systems engage appropriately during cornering on a safe road. Listen for any irregular brake pedal feel, unusual noises from the hybrid system transitioning between electric and combustion modes, and verify that the brake discs are free from significant corrosion lipping given the relatively low annual mileage, which can lead to surface rust and potential caliper binding. The vehicle's full Kia service history should be examined for confirmation of oil changes, brake fluid renewal typically every two years, coolant replacement, and any hybrid battery health checks. Finally, although no mileage anomalies are evident, the age of the vehicle means the buyer should still inspect for general underbody corrosion, suspension bush deterioration, and exhaust condition, as these are time rather than mileage dependent on a four-year-old vehicle.