2012 KIA RIO 1.4L Diesel · FN12 GXG

The 2012 Kia Rio presents a stable and currently sound roadworthiness profile following its most recent MOT on 20 February 2026 at 115,105 miles, where the tester recorded zero defects. This clean pass marks a clear improvement over the preceding test cycle. The vehicle failed on 24 February 2025 at 109,066 miles due to an excessively worn offside front suspension arm ball joint and a split nearside front constant velocity boot. Both defects were rectified before the retest just four days later on 28 February 2025, which also passed with no issues. The trend is therefore one of active repair and consistent annual compliance rather than neglect. Mileage accumulation sits at roughly 8,200 miles per year, which is typical for a 14-year-old supermini. The record shows steady annual increments: from 93,062 miles in February 2023 to 101,190 miles in February 2024, then 109,066 miles in February 2025, and finally 115,105 miles in February 2026. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps that would suggest long periods of disuse or odometer anomalies. The annual test dates fall consistently between February and March, indicating a regular servicing and inspection routine rather than reactive, last-minute submissions. Despite the clean 2026 result, the 2025 failure flags two components that warrant close physical inspection. The offside front suspension arm ball joint was excessively worn, and while it has since been replaced, a buyer should check for uneven tyre wear and knocking over speed bumps to confirm the repair has held. The split CV boot on the nearside inner drive shaft joint was also replaced, but grease contamination and joint wear can persist if the repair was delayed. Inspect the boot for fresh grease splatter and play in the joint. The 2023 advisory regarding slight play in the offside front ball joint suggests this area has been a recurring weak point, so a thorough suspension check is advisable. Tyre condition has appeared as an advisory in three of the last four tests, including a nearside rear tyre cut in 2023 and edge wear across all tyres in 2024. This pattern points to either alignment issues or a driver who defers basic consumable replacement. A buyer should measure tread depth across all four tyres and check for inner or outer edge scalloping, which would indicate worn tracking or incorrect camber. Brake components and exhaust emissions have not featured as defects, but given the mileage, a test drive should still assess braking feel and exhaust smoke under load. Overall, the record reflects a vehicle that is mechanically compliant today but has a history of minor suspension and tyre wear that demands a careful pre-purchase inspection.