2016 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · EY16 NWB

The Kia Sportage presents a clean MOT history in the most recent tests, with the December 2024 entries—both a pass and a fail at 135,405 miles—showing no defects recorded. This suggests the vehicle passed its final inspection without major mechanical or safety issues, though the duplicated test dates raise a procedural question that should be clarified with the seller. The trend over the past four years is stable, with no recurring advisories or failures tied to wear items, indicating the vehicle has either been well-maintained or has avoided significant component degradation. The absence of defects in earlier tests (2023, 2022, 2021) further supports this, though the lack of advisories could also imply minimal proactive checks beyond legal requirements. The mileage accumulation of 135,405 miles over ten years—averaging roughly 13,540 miles annually—is high for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the 2016 model year. The gaps between tests are irregular: the 2023 test at 108,284 miles occurred roughly 14 months after the 2022 test at 96,412 miles, suggesting a slower mileage phase, while the jump to 135,405 miles by December 2024 indicates a period of heavier use or rapid mileage logging. This pattern may imply the vehicle was either driven extensively in recent years or sat unused for stretches before being put back into service. The high mileage alone does not guarantee issues, but it does warrant closer scrutiny of high-wear components. Given the clean MOT record, a buyer should still prioritise an in-person inspection of suspension components, particularly the front and rear coil springs, anti-roll bars, and bushings, which are prone to fatigue at this mileage. The brakes should be tested for uneven wear or binding, especially the rear calipers, as high mileage can lead to premature wear or seized mechanisms. Structural integrity is less of a concern without rust advisories, but the undercarriage, wheel arches, and sills should be checked for hidden corrosion, particularly in salted or rural environments. The exhaust system, while not flagged, should be verified for leaks or excessive vibration, as these can develop silently over time. Finally, the dual MOT entries in December 2024 suggest potential administrative oversight—buyers should request confirmation that no defects were overlooked or that the vehicle was not re-tested unnecessarily.