2014 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · CL07 ROE

Recurring steering and tyre wear issues define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, with the most recent test on 09 March 2026 showing a failure for both registration plate lamps and a nearside front track rod end with excessive play. While the vehicle passed its subsequent retest on the same day, the presence of both nearside and offside front tyre advisories for being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edges suggests a persistent issue with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. This pattern of steering component failure, noted previously in March 2023, indicates that the track rod ends are a known wear point on this specific vehicle. The recorded mileage of 104,863 miles over approximately twelve years equates to an average annual usage of roughly 8,739 miles. This represents a typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent rather than intensive operation. From a mechanical perspective, this level of mileage means that components such as suspension bushes, brake discs, and exhaust systems are reaching mid-life stages where wear becomes more frequent in the MOT record, as evidenced by the 2024 advisories regarding rear brake pad thickness and disc pitting. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and front-end stability during a test drive. Given the repeated failures and advisories regarding the track rod end and uneven tyre wear, it is essential to check for any wandering at motorway speeds, a heavy or pulling sensation through the steering wheel, or any audible knocking or clunking sounds when turning the wheel at low speeds or navigating uneven surfaces. The recent advisories for both front tyres being worn on the edges strongly imply that the tracking may still be out of specification, which can lead to rapid tyre degradation if not correctly addressed. The braking system also requires scrutiny following the 2024 advisories for thin rear brake pads and pitted or scored rear discs. During a test drive, listen for any squealing or grinding noises from the rear of the vehicle during braking and feel for any pulsations or judder through the brake pedal, which can indicate uneven disc surfaces. While the 2026 test focused on lighting and steering, the cumulative history of consumables reaching their limits suggests that a thorough inspection of the remaining brake pad life and the condition of the front suspension linkages is necessary to ensure the vehicle meets current roadworthiness standards.