2012 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · ET12 ADZ

The 2012 Ford Kuga’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-09—just nine months ago—shows no recorded defects or advisories, despite two consecutive tests at the same mileage (89,025) yielding one pass and one fail with no specific faults logged. This suggests either an unusually lenient tester or a vehicle that has evaded critical failures through basic compliance rather than proactive maintenance. The absence of recurring advisories or defects over the past three years indicates no obvious pattern of neglect, though the lack of detailed fault codes makes it impossible to confirm whether minor issues were overlooked or consistently resolved. The most recent pass implies the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, but the repeated tests at identical mileage warrant scrutiny of components prone to gradual deterioration, such as suspension bushes or brake calipers, which might not trigger a fail until they reach a critical threshold. The recorded mileage progression of 89,025 miles today, with the last test at 72,861 miles in September 2024, suggests an average of around 16,164 miles per year over the past two years—a rate slightly above the typical 6,359 miles annually for this vehicle’s age. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests (5,082 miles in 13 months) contrasts sharply with the subsequent 16,164 miles in just over a year, indicating a significant increase in usage. While this could reflect regular driving habits, it also implies accelerated wear on high-mileage components like tyres, brake pads, and suspension elements. The absence of intermediate MOTs or service records means there’s no evidence of scheduled maintenance during this period, which could be a red flag for deferred upkeep. Given the sparse MOT history and the lack of specific faults, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which often fail without triggering a fail. The repeated tests at the same mileage in 2025 raise suspicion of binding or unevenly worn brake calipers or discs, even if not formally recorded. Corrosion should be checked at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as these areas are critical for structural integrity. The engine bay and exhaust system should also be examined for leaks or excessive rust, especially given the vehicle’s age and mileage. While the MOT record suggests no immediate cause for alarm, these areas are where silent degradation typically occurs.