2021 Ford Kuga Titanium Edition 1.5L Petrol · CF71 GYY

The 2021 Ford Kuga Titanium Edition received its latest MOT test on 2025-12-09, which resulted in a pass with two recurring advisories regarding brake pad wear at both the front and rear axles, each showing thinning to 4mm. This pattern of thin brake pads is consistent with the previous MOT results from 2024-12-17, indicating a stable maintenance trend rather than a sudden deterioration. The advisories do not flag any structural or safety-critical failures but highlight a gradual reduction in friction material thickness, which is a common issue in high-mileage vehicles where brake systems experience regular use. While the MOT has not recorded any failures, the persistent thinness of the pads suggests that the braking system may require closer monitoring, particularly if the vehicle is subjected to frequent or heavy braking demands. The recorded mileage of 33,632 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,726 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for this model class. This level of mileage is not excessively high for a five-year-old car, but it does imply that the vehicle has been in active service rather than standing idle for extended periods. However, without additional context on specific driving conditions—such as frequent stop-and-go traffic, mountainous terrain, or aggressive braking—it is difficult to assess whether the brake pad wear is directly attributable to excessive usage or simply a natural progression of wear over time. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests consistent ownership, which may contribute to more predictable maintenance needs, though wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components will inevitably accelerate with continued use. Given the recurring brake pad advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the front and rear brake discs, calipers, and pads. During a test drive, listen for signs of uneven brake pad wear, which may indicate misalignment or binding calipers, and check for any pulsations or vibrations that could signal warped discs or internal brake system issues. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as low fluid levels or contamination could exacerbate pad wear and compromise braking performance. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is not degraded by its age, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can lead to reduced braking efficiency if not replaced every two years. If the brake pads are indeed thin to 4mm or less, the buyer should budget for a replacement within the next 1,000 to 1,500 miles, depending on driving habits, to prevent excessive disc wear and potential failure. Beyond the brakes, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s suspension and tyre condition, as these areas are often affected by the vehicle’s mileage and usage profile. Check the suspension for signs of excessive wear on coil springs, shock absorbers, or suspension bushes, which may produce clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment issues or camber problems, and look for sidewall cracks or perishing, particularly if the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods. Given the vehicle’s age, a visual inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of corrosion is prudent, especially around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and areas where the car may have been parked in damp conditions. Finally, since the car is relatively new in terms of calendar age, the buyer should verify that all scheduled services—such as oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and fluid top-ups—have been completed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as these are critical for maintaining long-term reliability. If the service history is incomplete, the buyer should request a copy of the service book to ensure no major maintenance has been overlooked.