2010 KIA Picanto 1.0L Petrol · CV60 BAA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 November 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding twelve‑month test on 25 November 2024 also passed. Earlier in the same year a test on 25 November 2024 recorded a failure, as did a test on 8 November 2023, though neither failure listed any specific fault. The pattern of a failure followed by a pass in successive years suggests that any issues identified were remedied promptly and that the vehicle’s overall maintenance trajectory is stabilising rather than deteriorating. At 74 670 miles the Picanto has averaged roughly 4 600 miles per annum over its sixteen‑year life, which is considerably below the typical usage for a small hatchback. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage. While reduced wear on engine, transmission and brake components can be a benefit, the calendar age of the vehicle means that rubber and polymer parts may have aged regardless of mileage, and corrosion can develop in areas that sit idle for long stretches. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the condition of the tyres, inspecting the tread depth and, more importantly, the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening that can occur with age even on low‑kilometre tyres. The suspension should be examined for softened or cracked bushes, worn ball joints and any signs of leaking shock absorbers, as these components can deteriorate from time rather than distance. During a test drive listen for clunking or excessive play when negotiating bumps, and feel for any pull or vibration that might indicate worn steering rack bushings or uneven tyre wear. The brake system should be checked for surface rust on discs, especially if the car has been stationary for months, and the pads should be measured for remaining thickness; any shudder or pulsation under braking would merit a closer inspection of the calipers and disc condition. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12‑volt battery should be tested for cranking amperage and inspected for electrolyte loss or case swelling, as batteries lose capacity over calendar time even with low use. All service fluids—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—should be sampled or replaced if they have not been changed within the manufacturer’s time‑based intervals, since fluid degradation can lead to reduced lubrication, corrosion and compromised braking performance. Finally, a visual survey of the bodywork and under‑carriage for rust, especially around wheel arches, sills and suspension mounting points, together with a review of the service book for regular oil changes and any major component replacements, will give a clearer picture of how well the car has been cared for despite its modest mileage.