2005 KIA Picanto 1.1L Petrol · CA05 FAJ

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile, showing a trend of worsening mechanical neglect despite its low annual mileage figures. While it passed the most recent September 2023 test at 118,271 miles, the report reveals a high volume of advisories that indicate systemic reactive maintenance. The presence of a persistent oil leak across four consecutive years since 2021 suggests that engine seals are only addressed when they fail inspection rather than through preventative care. At 21 years old, the mileage of 118,271 miles represents a low average of approximately 5,600 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber and metal components, which is evident in this record. Between September 2022 and September 2023, the car covered only 7,131 miles, yet the number of noted defects in the suspension and braking increased significantly, highlighting that the vehicle is suffering from time and exposure rather than mechanical wear. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and braking systems. The 2023 test flagged all four brake hoses for corrosion at the ferrules and three coil springs for being corroded, which are high-risk areas for failure. Furthermore, the nearside front wheel bearing was noted for play, and previous tests identified worn suspension arm bushes and artwork absorber bushes. These issues suggest that the underbody components are reaching the end of their functional life and will likely require significant investment to ensure continued road safety. The condition of the tyres is also a point of concern, as the 2023 record shows the front tyres worn to the legal limit with bald inner edges, indicating alignment issues, while the rear tyres are perished. Given the ongoing oil leak and the history of deteriorating rubber components, the buyer should be prepared for immediate repair costs to bring the vehicle to a reliable standard upon purchase.