2006 KIA Sorento 2.5L Diesel · FG06 JSZ

The 2006 KIA SORENTO passed its most recent MOT on 13 February 2026 at 87,541 miles, yet the maintenance trend is worsening rather than resolving. The tester flagged significant structural corrosion across the nearside and offside inner and outer sills, alongside a corroding nearside rear wheel arch. Brake components also drew repeated attention, with both front brake pipes heavily corroded and coated in grease, and the brake hydraulic reservoir sitting close to the minimum mark. While tyre wear and perishing are standard consumable issues, the advancing corrosion on structural areas and the compromised brake pipe condition present serious mechanical risks that demand immediate attention. Covering 87,541 miles over twenty years translates to a low annual average of roughly 4,377 miles, but the recent usage pattern tells a more specific story. Between February 2022 and February 2023, the mileage rose by 4,957 miles, followed by consistent annual jumps of approximately 5,700 miles through to the 2026 test. This steady accumulation indicates regular, light use rather than prolonged dormancy. Despite this consistent mileage, the vehicle has developed severe corrosion, suggesting the previous owner prioritized keeping the vehicle moving over preserving its structural integrity or addressing underlying rust. A prospective buyer must inspect the structural integrity of the vehicle closely before purchase. The MOT record shows a clear escalation in corrosion; the 2023 test noted non-load-bearing sill corrosion, the 2024 test at 76,030 miles flagged integral body structure corrosion on the inner sills, and the 2026 test revealed corrosion spreading to the outer sills and wheel arch. The tester also flagged a persistent slight play in both track rod end ball joints, a fault present since the 2023 test at 70,324 miles that remains unrectified. Broken exhaust centre rubbers have also appeared repeatedly across multiple tests. The braking system requires particular scrutiny. The tester flagged corroded front brake pipes covered in grease in both 2025 and 2026, indicating a poor repair approach or an attempt to mask deterioration rather than replace the lines. Brake disc wear and pitting have been recurring issues, with the offside rear disc flagged in 2024 and both front discs noted as worn in 2023. Combined with the power steering seepage flagged in 2024, the mechanical underpinnings show a pattern of deferred maintenance. Buyers should verify whether the brake pipes have been properly replaced or merely patched, and assess the sill corrosion for any compromise to structural rigidity.