2018 Ssangyong Korando 2.2L Diesel · CU18 VLW

A noteworthy feature of this Korando's MOT history is the contradiction in its most recent test entries. On 26 February 2026, the vehicle was recorded as both passing and failing on the same date, with no defects listed against either outcome. This is most plausibly explained by an initial failure followed by an immediate or same-day retest that resulted in a pass, but the absence of any advisory or failure data on either record is unusual. Aside from that anomaly, the vehicle has accumulated four consecutive passes from 2023 through early 2025, with no advisories recorded at any point. The overall roadworthiness trend is therefore one of clean, stable presentation, though the dual 2026 entry is worth clarifying with the seller to confirm what remedial work, if any, was carried out between the two tests. With 35,913 miles recorded across roughly eight years, this Korando has averaged approximately 4,489 miles annually, which is substantially below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual accumulation suggests the car has either been used primarily for short local trips or has spent extended periods stationary between uses. Mechanically, low-mileage Ssangyong vehicles can be susceptible to issues arising from prolonged inactivity rather than wear, including dried suspension bushes, sticking brake calipers, degraded fuel system components, and aged rubber seals throughout the drivetrain. The test history is too sparse to reveal any mileage gaps, but the consistent year-on-year testing suggests the vehicle has remained on the road throughout its life, with no long-term SORN periods that would otherwise raise additional concerns about dormant corrosion or perished components. For a prospective buyer, the absence of any recorded advisories across five tests means there is no direct component history to interrogate, so physical inspection becomes particularly important. On a test drive, pay close attention to the suspension response over uneven road surfaces; low-mileage vehicles often develop stiff or cracked anti-roll bar bushes, top mount bearings, and front MacPherson strut cartridges that may pass an MOT damper check yet feel harsh or clonky in normal driving. Listen for any knocking from the front end over speed humps, which could indicate worn drop links or control arm bushes that have hardened with age rather than worn through use. Steering should feel precise and self-centring without excess play, and the front suspension should not creak or pop when turned at low speed on full lock. Given the very low mileage, particular attention should also be paid to the braking system during inspection. Brake calipers that have remained stationary for long periods can develop corroded slide pins or seized pistons, leading to uneven pad wear or pulling under braking; check the discs for any lipping or surface corrosion that may suggest the calipers have not been retracting properly. The exhaust system, particularly at the joints and mounting rubbers, is another area where age-related deterioration can mask low mileage. Under the bonnet, inspect the condition of rubber hoses, drive belts, and coolant seals for any signs of perishing or weeping, as these deteriorate with calendar age rather than mileage. Finally, verify the exact circumstances of the February 2026 dual MOT entry with the seller, and ensure any work undertaken is supported by invoices, to give a complete picture of the vehicle's current mechanical state.