2018 Ford Kuga 1.5L Diesel · DN18 DKA

The most recent MOT test in October 2025 resulted in a pass, although it included advisories for wearing rear brake pads and a perishing rear tyre. When reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend appears to be declining. While the vehicle maintained a clean record between 2021 and 2023, the more recent history shows a shift toward reactive maintenance, highlighted by a dangerous failure in November 2024 due to critically low front tyre tread. This suggests that consumables are being run to their legal limits rather than being replaced preventatively. The recorded mileage of 44,555 miles over approximately eight years is significantly lower than the national average, equating to roughly 5,569 miles per year. While this indicates reduced wear on the drivetrain and engine internals, such low usage often implies the vehicle has been used for short urban trips or has spent extended periods stationary. This usage profile increases the risk of carbon deposits in the exhaust system, premature battery degradation, and the drying out of rubber seals and suspension components. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the tyre and braking history. The combination of a dangerous failure for front tread and previous advisories regarding inner edge wear suggests a potential issue with wheel alignment or worn suspension bushes causing uneven scrubbing. During a test drive, the driver should listen for any clunks from the front suspension and check for any steering drift. Furthermore, with advisories for thin brake pads appearing on both the front and rear axles over the last two years, a full brake service including pads and discs should be anticipated. Given the vehicle's low mileage and age, a thorough physical inspection is essential to identify standing-related defects. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for cracking or perishing, as specifically noted in the latest MOT. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or binding calipers, which are common in vehicles that sit idle. It is critical to verify the service book to ensure oil and filters have been changed according to calendar intervals rather than mileage alone, as fluid degradation occurs regardless of distance travelled. Finally, the health of the 12V battery should be tested to ensure it has not been compromised by infrequent charging cycles.