2020 Ford Kuga ST-Line First ED Phev CVT 2.5L Hybrid electric · EO20 SPX

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 4 April 2026, though the inspection revealed several advisories regarding tyre wear. When evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to have been well-maintained through 2024 and 2025, as no defects were recorded during those periods. However, the recent transition from a clean record to advisories concerning all four tyres suggests that the vehicle is currently entering a period of required consumable replacement. The previous advisory from 2023 regarding light oil misting on the rear shock absorbers does not appear to have escalated into a failure in subsequent tests, which indicates that the suspension components have remained within acceptable operational tolerances for the time being. With a recorded mileage of 53,693 over approximately six years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 8,949 miles per year. This usage profile is considered typical for a modern SUV and suggests a balanced driving history. This level of mileage is beneficial as it avoids the mechanical risks associated with long periods of standing, such as brake binding or battery degradation, while also avoiding the heavy wear associated with high-mileage commercial or long-distance use. The drivetrain and hybrid components should theoretically be in a stable condition, provided the service history is comprehensive and aligns with this usage. The most pressing concern for a prospective buyer is the condition of the tyres. The MOT advisory notes that both front and rear tyres are worn close to the legal limit and exhibit uneven wear on the edges. This edge wear is a classic symptom of incorrect wheel alignment or worn suspension bushes. During your test drive, you must listen for any consistent humming or droning noises from the tyres and check for any steering pull when driving on a straight, level surface. I recommend inspecting the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking due to age. Given the uneven wear pattern, any replacement of tyres should be accompanied by a professional four-wheel alignment to prevent the new rubber from wearing prematurely. You should also perform a visual inspection of the rear shock absorbers to ensure the light misting noted in 2023 has not progressed to active leaking. Look for damp or oily residue on the body of the dampers. On the road, pay close attention to the rear end of the car when traversing bumps or undulations; any excessive bouncing, oscillation, or a dull clunking sound would indicate that the dampers have lost their damping effectiveness and require replacement. Finally, as this is a PHEV model, verify that the charging port is clean and free of debris, and ensure the vehicle's hybrid system transitions smoothly between electric and combustion modes during your drive.