2019 Ford Kuga 1.5L Petrol · CK69 NWH

The Kuga presents a clean MOT history at the most recent test on 1 June 2026, with no defects recorded at 33,376 miles. However, the underlying trend reveals a recurring issue with front brake pad wear, first flagged in the 2024 test at 18,684 miles when both near and offside pads were worn to 3mm—a critical threshold under DVSA standards. This was repeated in the 2025 test at 26,004 miles, where the fault persisted despite the vehicle covering just 7,320 miles in that year alone. The absence of further brake-related failures in the 2026 test suggests the issue was addressed, but the pattern indicates the previous owner either delayed replacement or failed to monitor pad thickness proactively. Beyond brakes, the record shows no structural, suspension, or emissions concerns, with only the 2023 and 2022 tests passing without advisories—a rare consistency for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression is unusually low for a seven-year-old vehicle, averaging just 4,768 miles per year, which may imply infrequent use or extended periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2022 test at 8,632 miles and the 2023 test at 10,275 miles—just 1,643 miles over nearly 12 months—raises questions about whether the car was driven regularly or stored for long periods. The subsequent jump to 18,684 miles by June 2024 suggests a change in usage, though the 2025 and 2026 mileages (26,004 and 33,376 respectively) indicate a return to lighter annual mileage. Such variability can affect component wear, particularly in brakes and tyres, but the lack of other advisories mitigates concerns about broader mechanical neglect. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be verifying whether the brake pads were replaced after the 2025 test, as the 3mm wear threshold is a serious safety risk if ignored. Inspect the brake discs for scoring or uneven wear, which often accompanies prolonged thin pad use. Given the low mileage, check for signs of corrosion on suspension components—particularly lower control arms, track rod ends, and coil springs—since prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation in damp UK conditions. The absence of advisories on exhaust emissions or structural integrity in recent tests is positive, but a thorough examination of the underbody for corrosion and the operation of all suspension bushes is advisable. Tyre condition should also be scrutinised, as the sparse mileage history may mask uneven wear or age-related cracking.