2011 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · DG11 HTL

The vehicle presents as roadworthy following its most recent test on 8 November 2025 at 61,670 miles, but the maintenance trend shows signs of accelerating wear in consumable components. While the car has passed every inspection since 2014, the November 2025 report identifies multiple issues including thin front and rear brake pads and a binding offside rear service brake. This follows a pattern of brake-related advisories seen as far back as 2016 and 2021, suggesting that while the vehicle is being maintained to pass MOT standards, component replacement may be reactive rather than proactive. The mileage profile is notably low for a 2011 vehicle, averaging approximately 4,111 miles per year. The data shows consistent, gradual progression from 13,703 miles in February 2014 to the current 61,670 miles. This low annual usage often implies lighter mechanical strain on the drivetrain, though the February 2017 advisory regarding four cracked tyres suggests the vehicle may have experienced periods of inactivity or long-term storage, which can lead to rubber perishing despite low mileage. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The recurring advisories for thin pads and worn discs, combined with the recent binding rear brake, indicate that the calipers and hydraulic components require close scrutiny to ensure they are not seizing. The suspension also requires attention; the tester flagged play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint in both 2021 and 2022, and although not repeated in the most recent test, the history suggests these components are subject to wear. Finally, check the condition of the tyres and suspension bushes. The record shows a history of uneven tyre wear and edge wear, specifically in 2021 and 2024, which often points to misalignment issues or worn suspension geometry. Given the low mileage and the age of the vehicle, verifying that rubber components like bushings and tyre sidewalls have not perished from age is essential to ensure the vehicle's handling remains stable.