2012 KIA Optima 1.7L Diesel · EF62 EEZ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive repairs rather than preventative care. While the most recent MOT test in August 2025 at 202,311 miles passed, it followed a failure just two days prior. This failure identified a compromised offside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover and a nearside tyre worn to the legal limit. The fact that these were rectified immediately to secure a pass suggests the owner only addresses faults once they threaten the vehicle's legal status. The mileage profile is significantly high, averaging approximately 14,450 miles per year over its 14-year life. There is a notable surge in usage between September 2024 and August 2025, where the car covered 13,090 miles in less than eleven months. This rapid accumulation places immense strain on the drivetrain, suspension components, and braking system. The clean records from 2023 and 2024 indicate a period of relative stability, but the recent high-mile failures suggest the vehicle is entering a phase of accelerated wear for its major mechanical components. A buyer must inspect the steering system closely, as the 2022 test already flagged slight free play in the steering rack. Given the current mileage exceeds 200,000 miles, this issue has likely worsened. The recent failure of the anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover indicates that rubber components throughout the suspension are degrading, necessitating a thorough check of all bushes, ball joints, and shocks for perished material. The uneven wear noted on the nearside rear tyre in the latest test also suggests potential alignment issues or a worn shock that requires professional attention to prevent premature tyre failure.