2015 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · EK65 AAZ

The 2015 Kia Sportage has recently passed its MOT test on 2026-08-01 with no recorded defects, marking the vehicle’s cleanest inspection result in the past five years. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs since 2022, with only advisory conditions noted in prior tests, indicating a stable maintenance record without any critical failures or recurring mechanical issues. The advisories from previous MOTs—particularly those related to tyre wear, brake pad thickness, and rear disc condition—suggest routine wear progression rather than sudden deterioration, though the owner should address these concerns promptly to avoid further degradation or potential roadworthiness risks. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 93,572 miles over approximately 11 years represents an average annual usage of around 8,507 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. While lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or less demanding use, the accumulation rate here is neither unusually high nor low, meaning wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components has likely been gradual rather than accelerated. However, the advisories from the 2023 and 2022 MOTs—especially regarding tyre wear and brake conditions—highlight that the vehicle has been subjected to consistent use, which has led to predictable but manageable wear patterns. Rapid mileage accumulation could, in theory, accelerate wear on internal components like the drivetrain or exhaust system, but the absence of critical failures in recent tests mitigates this concern. Given the advisories on tyre wear and brake condition, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, particularly focusing on the near-side front tyre, which was noted as worn close to the legal limit in 2024. The buyer should measure the remaining tread depth precisely, as further wear could lead to hydroplaning risks or legal non-compliance. Listen for uneven brake pedal travel or a grinding noise when applying the brakes, as these could indicate thin pads or warped discs, which may require immediate replacement. Additionally, visually inspect the rear brake discs for excessive pitting or scoring, which could compromise braking performance and safety. If the buyer observes any binding calipers or corrosion around the brake components, particularly on the rear axle, this may necessitate a professional inspection to prevent binding during braking. For the broader vehicle assessment, the buyer should check for signs of tyre sidewall perishing or cracking, especially on the near-side tyres, which were previously flagged as damaged or perishing. Inspect the vehicle for any fluid leaks around the front suspension, exhaust system, or undercarriage, as these could indicate failing seals or gaskets that may require replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the 12-volt battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power during prolonged periods of inactivity. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, the buyer should verify the presence of any service book stamps or records for fluid changes, particularly brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced at 60,000–100,000 miles or every 5–10 years, whichever comes first. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the absence of hidden issues, such as suspension bush wear, exhaust emissions leaks, or structural integrity concerns.