2015 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · EN64 JVU

Brake wear on the nearside rear has escalated to dangerous levels, as the 3 October 2025 MOT recorded a pad thickness below 1.5 mm and a significantly worn disc, resulting in a failed test despite an earlier pass entry on the same day. This failure follows a pattern of brake‑related advisories and failures dating back to 2021, when both rear pads were flagged as thin, and a 2024 failure that added a dangerous front pad wear to the list. The vehicle’s recent history therefore shows a deterioration in the braking system rather than an improvement, with the latest test confirming that immediate replacement of the nearside rear pads and disc is required before the car can be considered roadworthy. At 77,804 mi the Kuga averages just over 7 000 mi per year, a figure that sits comfortably within typical usage for an eleven‑year‑old SUV. The MOT record shows no large gaps in testing, with annual examinations each October, indicating that mileage has been logged consistently. This moderate annual accumulation suggests that wear on consumables such as tyres and brakes should be in line with normal expectations, but the repeated tyre‑edge wear advisories from 2022 to 2023 demonstrate that the tyre tread has been approaching the legal limit across all four corners, a situation that can be accelerated by higher mileage or aggressive driving. Prospective buyers should inspect the rear braking assembly closely: listen for squeal or grinding when applying the brakes, feel for any pulsation in the pedal, and verify that the pads are uniformly thick when the wheels are removed. The nearside rear disc should be examined for scoring or thinning, and the off‑side front pads, already noted as thin in 2024, should be measured to confirm whether they are still within safe limits. In addition, the front direction indicators failed both sides in the 2024 test, so the bulbs, sockets and wiring should be checked for continuity and proper operation, as a faulty indicator circuit can mask other electrical faults. Tyre condition warrants particular attention; the 2022‑2023 advisories highlighted edge wear on all four tyres, which often signals mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. During a test drive, observe whether the vehicle pulls to one side, and feel for any knocking over bumps that could indicate deteriorated suspension bushes or damaged control arm joints. The 2021 note about an under‑tray preventing full inspection suggests that access to the underside may be restricted, so a thorough visual check under the vehicle for corrosion, loose exhaust hangers or leaking fluids should be performed before committing to purchase. Addressing the brake replacements, confirming indicator functionality, and verifying tyre and suspension health will be essential steps to bring the Kuga back to a roadworthy state.