2015 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · FH64 HCY

A clear pattern emerges from the MOT history of this 2015 Ford Kuga, centred on recurring minor advisories rather than significant structural or mechanical failures. Across seven recorded tests since 2020, the vehicle has passed on six occasions with only one outright failure, recorded on 8 December 2023, when both front position lamps were found not working. This defect was rectified swiftly enough for the same vehicle to pass later the same day, with tyre wear advisories noted but no further major issues raised. The most recent test on 19 February 2026 returned a pass, accompanied only by minor advisories relating to slightly discoloured rear direction indicators, a defect that has now appeared consistently across four consecutive tests dating back to 2022. The overall trajectory is one of stable roadworthiness at test, but with a stubborn cosmetic lighting issue and a handful of component advisories that warrant closer inspection on a physical viewing. The recorded mileage of 117,361 miles over an 11-year period equates to roughly 10,669 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with average annual usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no lengthy gaps between tests suggesting extended periods off the road, and the continuity of annual testing from 2020 through to early 2026 indicates reasonably consistent use. The mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than erratic, with no sudden spikes or suspicious drops that would imply clock tampering or prolonged inactivity. For a turbocharged petrol or diesel Kuga of this generation, this kind of mid-range annual mileage is sufficient to keep mechanical components, fluids, and seals working without inducing the accelerated wear seen on high-mileage examples, though consumables such as brake discs, pads, and suspension items should still be expected to have received attention at some point. The most relevant items to scrutinise on a physical inspection relate directly to the advisories recorded. The persistent discolouration of the rear direction indicators across multiple tests suggests the lens units may be faded or oxidised, which is common on Kugas of this age and can mask a reduction in light output; both units should be checked in good light for brightness and uniformity, and replacement lens pods are relatively inexpensive. The empty coolant header tank advisory from December 2022 is a concern worth raising with the seller, as an empty header at the time of test could indicate a previous leak, air ingress, or a head gasket issue; the system should be cold-checked for level, the header tank itself inspected for staining or weeping, and any history of coolant loss discussed. The light oil misting noted on the offside rear shock absorber at the same 2022 test is a common finding on higher-mileage Kugas and should not be immediately alarming, but it is worth checking whether the shock has been replaced since, and whether the corresponding nearside unit shows any similar seepage. The 2023 tyre wear advisories on all four corners, flagged as worn close to the legal limit and on the edges, point to either an alignment issue or a driving style that promotes shoulder wear; a test drive should include a straight-line stability check and a feel for any steering pull, while a physical inspection of the current tyres should focus on even tread wear across the width. The 2020 advisory for a TPMS warning lamp indicates an under-inflation event at some point, which on a Kuga can stem from a faulty sensor, a slow puncture, or genuine pressure loss; the system should be checked for stored faults and the tyre valves inspected for corrosion. On the road, pay particular attention to suspension noise over uneven surfaces, as Kugas of this generation are known for wear in the rear trailing arm bushes and front lower arm joints, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front end, and feel for vagueness or vibration through the steering wheel that might indicate worn drop links or track rod ends. Finally, given the vehicle's age and mileage, a thorough under-bonnet check for oil seepage around the engine and turbo, alongside a visual inspection of the underbody for corrosion around suspension mounting points and brake pipes, would be prudent.