2015 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · BD65 HWM

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend in reactive repairs. While the car passed its latest test in October 2025 at 75,593 miles, this followed a significant failure just two weeks prior. That failure highlighted a critical list of mechanical and safety defects, including a major exhaust leak, high carbon monoxide emissions, and multiple lighting failures. The transition from a clean record to a comprehensive failure suggests that components are only addressed when forced by testing requirements rather than through a preventative schedule. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use vehicle, averaging approximately 6,800 miles per year over its eleven-year life. The car progressed from 27,723 miles in 2018 to 75,593 miles by late 2025, showing steady accumulation without unusual gaps. However, the low mileage does not correlate with a lack of wear; the long intervals between services appear to have allowed for the degradation of rubber and metal components, as evidenced by the recurring issues with the exhaust system and brake hardware seen in the recent test failures. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the exhaust system and engine seals. The record shows a persistent history of exhaust leaks dating back to 2023, which escalated into a major leak and emission failure in 2025. There is also a noted oil leak from the October 2025 test that requires verification to ensure it is not an active seep. The suspension also warrants attention, as the offside rear suspension arm bush was flagged as worn in the most recent advisory, indicating the start of mechanical play in the rear assembly. The braking system is a recurring point of concern for this vehicle, with records of thin pads and pitted discs appearing in 2019, 2021, and 2025. The October 2025 failure also noted rear inner tyres worn to the legal limit with uneven edges, suggesting poor alignment or sticking calipers. Given the history of neglecting these consumables until they fail inspection, a buyer should check the current condition of all tyres and ensure the rear calipers are free from binding before purchasing.