2016 KIA Ceed 1.6L Petrol · CV66 VJO

The most recent MOT, dated 1 November 2025, resulted in a failure. The test identified a major defect – excessive wear on the nearside front lower suspension arm bush – and a critical advisory that the brake fluid was close to the minimum level, together with a nearside rear parking‑brake efficiency that only just met the required standard. Earlier MOTs in 2022, 2023 and 2024 were clean, so the vehicle’s maintenance record has moved from a stable, pass‑only trend to a deteriorating one, with the latest test highlighting the first substantive mechanical concerns. At ten years old the car has logged 50,569 miles, giving an average of just over 5,000 miles per year. This is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 miles annually, suggesting the vehicle has spent considerable periods idle or has been driven only lightly. Low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine, transmission and drivetrain components, but prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion of suspension joints, brake hardware and electrical connections, and can allow fluids to degrade even when not heavily used. Prospective buyers should give the suspension a thorough inspection. The worn nearside front lower arm bush will manifest as a clunk or looseness when steering through bumps or during hard cornering; visual inspection should reveal cracked or shredded rubber and any looseness in the mounting bolts. A qualified mechanic should assess the condition of the remaining bushings and consider replacing the entire front lower arm assembly if wear is uneven. The brake system requires immediate attention: the low brake fluid level points to either a leak or simply overdue fluid replacement. Check for any fluid seepage around the master cylinder, caliper pistons and brake lines, and verify that the fluid is clear and within the correct range. The parking‑brake adjustment on the nearside rear may need a mechanical tweak; listen for a faint dragging noise when the vehicle is stationary and test the rear handbrake for firm, consistent hold. While the MOT failure does not automatically imply worn pads or discs, a visual check for pad thickness, disc surface scoring and any uneven wear is prudent, as excessive bush wear can alter wheel alignment and accelerate brake wear. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, also inspect time‑related items regardless of mileage. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening; even with modest tread depth, tyres older than six years may need replacement. The 12 V battery is likely approaching the end of its service life, so a load test or voltage check is advisable. Examine the engine bay for any signs of fluid leakage, corrosion on metal brackets, and the condition of coolant, power‑steering and transmission fluids, which can degrade over years of inactivity. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended time‑based services, as a well‑documented maintenance history can mitigate the concerns raised by the recent MOT failure.