2014 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · CA14 UGW

Recurring failures involving critical braking components and suspension damping define the mechanical history of this vehicle. The record shows a pattern of dangerous defects, including brake pads worn below 1.5mm in both 2024 and 2026, alongside a failure for parking brake efficiency in August 2026. While the vehicle achieved a pass on 2026-08-25, this followed a test a day prior that flagged dangerous tyre tread depth and braking issues. This trend indicates a history of essential safety components reaching critical wear limits before being addressed. The recorded mileage of 84,241 miles over approximately twelve years equates to an average annual accumulation of 7,020 miles. This usage pattern is typical for the vehicle's age, suggesting a standard rate of wear on the drivetrain and chassis. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, meaning the vehicle has remained in regular circulation, though the recurring nature of the failures shows that consumables have frequently been replaced only upon MOT failure. Attention must be paid to the braking system and rear suspension. Given the history of dangerous brake pad wear and the 2026 failure regarding parking brake efficiency, a test drive should focus on the firmness of the brake pedal and the holding power of the handbrake on an incline. Any judder during deceleration or a spongy pedal feel should be noted. The offside rear shock absorber has been a persistent issue, recording a serious fluid leak in 2023 and light oil misting in the most recent 2026 test, which may result in excessive bouncing or instability over undulating surfaces. The steering and suspension linkages also require scrutiny. The nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover has been flagged as severely deteriorated across multiple tests in 2025 and 2026, and a track rod end dust cover was recorded as excessively damaged in 2024. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clicking sounds when traversing speed bumps or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Additionally, verify the operation of the tyre pressure monitoring system, as it was recorded as malfunctioning in 2025.