2012 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · FL62 AEK

This KIA Sportage has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness trend over the past two years, with the most recent MOT test on January 14, 2026—just six months ago—resulting in a clean pass at 105,438 miles. The absence of any defects across the last two successful tests suggests the vehicle has not experienced major recurring issues requiring immediate attention. However, the two consecutive failures in early 2024—just three days apart—raise a minor concern, though both were resolved before the subsequent pass. No advisories or recurring faults appear in the record, indicating the tester did not identify persistent wear or mechanical degradation during these inspections. The mileage progression shows consistent usage, averaging around 7,500 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no prolonged gaps suggesting neglect, nor are there abrupt spikes that would imply aggressive driving or deferred maintenance. The two failed tests in January 2024 occurred within a single day’s worth of mileage (96,369 to 96,387), which is unusual and may indicate a temporary oversight rather than a mechanical failure. The most recent MOT, just six months old, remains well within the DVSA’s recommended 12-month interval for vehicles under three years old, though it technically falls outside the standard one-year window for this age bracket. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components—particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs—due to the vehicle’s age and mileage. The 2024 failures, though resolved, warrant scrutiny of braking systems, as binding calipers or worn brake discs are common causes of MOT failures in this model. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on wheel arches, sills, and underbody corrosion, as these areas are prone to deterioration over 14 years. Tyre condition, including tread depth and lateral wear, should be verified, as the absence of tread-related failures does not preclude uneven or excessive wear from misalignment or suspension issues. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive corrosion, as these are frequently overlooked but critical for both performance and legality.