2018 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · EF18 EYT

The 2018 Ford Kuga presents a mixed roadworthiness picture marked by a persistent windshield wiper system issue that resurfaced after an initial failure. The vehicle first triggered a failed MOT on 2022-07-13 when the offside wiper was found not to clear the windscreen effectively, followed by a minor defect in March 2023 where the wiper blade itself was identified as defective. Despite these setbacks, the car has since returned to a clean record with a successful MOT on 2026-02-10, indicating that the underlying problem has been addressed. The overall trajectory suggests stability after corrective action, though the recurrence of the same component failure within a two-year window warrants attention during the current ownership period. At 103,159 miles on an eight-year-old chassis, the Kuga accumulates approximately 12,895 miles annually, which exceeds typical expectations for its model year and significantly outpaces the average annualisation for vehicles of this vintage. The MOT testing cadence appears consistent in the last four years, with intervals ranging from roughly nine to eleven months between assessments, suggesting routine servicing. Notably, the gap between the 2022 failed test and the subsequent minor wiper fault spanned nearly one year, while the interval from the 2023 minor fault to the 2024 clean pass was slightly shorter, indicating the vehicle has been monitored regularly since the earlier failures were resolved. Given the documented history of windshield wiper failures, a test drive should focus intently on the wiper assembly and its operation. Listen for irregular motor sounds or stuttering during wiper activation, and inspect the wiper arm bushings for signs of wear that might cause misalignment or uneven stroke. Check that each wiper blade clears the entire windshield surface without skipping or leaving streaks, particularly noting whether the offside wiper maintains proper contact throughout its full arc. If either wiper exhibits hesitation, delayed movement, or incomplete coverage, this would represent a functional deficiency requiring immediate repair before considering the purchase. While the MOT record does not flag broader systems such as suspension, brakes, or drivetrain, the combination of elevated mileage and age necessitates caution regarding general component longevity. The high annual mileage suggests substantial braking and suspension wear may have occurred over the vehicle's life, potentially affecting handling and component lifespan. Should the wiper system be confirmed as fully operational, the buyer should still verify that the power steering and braking systems remain responsive, as these are critical safety elements that have remained uninterrupted through the recent clean MOTs. Any new warning indicators during the test drive should prompt a professional inspection to rule out latent issues unrelated to the recorded advisory history.