2009 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · EA59 HCH

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Kuga was conducted on 2025-11-28 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were recorded. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of advisories and a single failure, suggesting some wear-related issues have persisted over the past few years. The most notable recurring advisory—near-side front outer tyre wear close to the legal limit—appears in 2023, indicating a consistent problem with uneven tyre degradation. The failure in 2023 also highlighted a non-functional offside rear stop lamp, which, while not critical to roadworthiness, should be addressed promptly to avoid further compliance risks. While the vehicle has passed subsequent MOTs without defects, these recurring advisories suggest underlying suspension or alignment issues that may have contributed to the tyre wear pattern, warranting further investigation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 165,235 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 9,720 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data does not reveal any extreme gaps or rapid mileage accumulation that would suggest overuse or neglect, though the lack of service records makes it impossible to confirm whether the vehicle has been maintained according to Ford’s recommended intervals. Higher mileage in this context does imply greater wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, but the absence of major failures or critical advisories in recent tests mitigates concerns about severe mechanical degradation. The vehicle’s standing time, particularly during the periods between MOTs, could also contribute to issues like brake corrosion, particularly if the engine was left running or the vehicle was stationary for prolonged periods. Given the recurring near-side front outer tyre wear advisory, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension geometry and alignment. Uneven tyre wear on the near-side front outer position typically indicates misalignment, camber issues, or worn suspension components such as coil springs, shock absorbers, or suspension bushes. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or cornering sharply, as these could signal worn bushings or loose suspension mounts. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns on the offside rear, which may correlate with the failed stop lamp issue—if the rear brake system is not functioning correctly, it could lead to inconsistent braking performance and further tyre damage. Immediate attention to the stop lamp should be prioritised to ensure compliance and prevent potential hazards. For the buyer’s physical inspection, focus on the vehicle’s structural integrity, fluid condition, and age-related wear. Given the age and mileage, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise tyre safety and may require replacement. Check the brake discs and calipers for corrosion, binding, or excessive glazing, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods—standing brake systems can lead to rust buildup on discs and seized calipers. Verify the 12V battery health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failing due to reduced internal resistance or parasitic drain from electrical systems. Inspect all fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, for contamination or degradation, paying particular attention to the coolant system for signs of leaks or sludge buildup, which could indicate overheating or long-term standing issues. Lastly, ensure that service book stamps are present for the last oil change and fluid servicing, as Ford’s 2009 Kuga requires regular intervals for oil and filter changes, particularly given the vehicle’s mileage. If service records are lacking, schedule a professional inspection to confirm the vehicle’s internal condition and address any potential issues before purchase.