2011 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · EX61 WDA

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a worsening trend in mechanical wear and steering system integrity. While it passed its most recent test in November 2025 at 184,132 miles, this followed a failure just two days prior. The tester identified persistent free play in the front steering rack at both rack ends, an issue that first appeared in the 2024 test. This indicates that the steering geometry is degrading and has not been properly rectified despite the previous advisory. At 15 years old, this 2011 Ford Kuga has covered a significant distance, averaging approximately 12,275 miles per year. This high usage correlates with the accelerated wear seen in the underbody components. Between September 2023 and November 2025, the vehicle covered nearly 29,000 miles in just over two years, suggesting recent high-intensity use. Such rapid accumulation of mileage places immense strain on the drivetrain and suspension, as evidenced by the recurring leak reports from the rear differential and the worn anti-roll bar linkages. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the steering system and front suspension. The recurring faults regarding the steering rack and ball joints suggest the vehicle is reaching the end of the service life for several expensive mechanical components. The persistent oil leak from the rear differential and the engine requires close monitoring to ensure it is not escalating into a significant loss that could lead to catastrophic failure. Furthermore, the history of thin brake pads in 2024 and a failure for illegal tyres in 2023 suggests a reactive maintenance approach where components are only addressed once they fail an MOT test rather than through proactive servicing.