2019 Ssangyong Korando 2.2L Diesel · FN19 HFS

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 11 September 2025, resulted in a Pass, with only a minor advisory recorded for front windscreen damage that did not adversely affect the driver's view. This is a positive indicator, as the vehicle cleared all safety-critical items at its last assessment. Looking at the broader history, the Korando has consistently passed its annual tests from 2022 onwards, with only two failure events recorded. The 2024 failure was specifically due to dangerously perished rear tyres and a nail in the front, issues which would have been remedied immediately to enable the subsequent pass recorded the same day. The earlier 2022 failure concerned a wiper blade and headlamp alignment, both relatively minor rectification items. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with no recurring mechanical, suspension, or braking defects appearing in the advisory records, suggesting the vehicle has been generally well maintained throughout its life. The recorded mileage of 55,069 miles on a seven-year-old vehicle equates to an average of approximately 7,867 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a car of this age. The mileage progression across the MOT entries shows steady, consistent accumulation rather than any unusual gaps or rapid spikes, which suggests the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods. This is mechanically advantageous, as regular use tends to keep seals, brakes, and drivetrain components in healthier working order compared to vehicles that have spent prolonged time stationary. However, a modest annual mileage does mean that some time-based degradation, such as rubber deterioration and fluid ageing, can still occur independently of the distance covered, so calendar-based servicing remains highly relevant to this particular Korando. Given the clean advisory history regarding mechanical components, attention during a pre-purchase inspection should focus on age and usage-related wear rather than any specific recurring defect. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, as the 2024 MOT recorded a dangerous failure on both rear tyres for exposed cords, indicating that this vehicle may be prone to accelerated rubber degradation. The condition and age of the windscreen wipers should be verified, and the headlamp alignment checked, particularly in light of the 2022 failure for an aim that was too low. A thorough inspection of the underbody, brake discs, and exhaust system for corrosion is advisable, as the vehicle has now reached an age where surface corrosion can begin to appear, even on well-maintained examples. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any suspension knocks or clonks from worn bushes or coil springs, which are common on SsangYong products once they pass the seven-year mark, and pay attention to brake feel for any shudder, vibration, or signs of binding calipers that may have developed from infrequent heavier use. The operation of the four-wheel-drive system, if equipped, should be evaluated by testing engagement on a loose surface, and the automatic or manual transmission should be checked for smooth, consistent changes. Fluid condition, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil, should be verified for recent replacement in line with calendar intervals, as low annual mileage does not prevent moisture ingress and degradation. Finally, the health of the 12V battery should be tested, as a vehicle of this age with moderate use can still suffer from battery failure due to repeated short journeys, and the service book should be examined to confirm that time-based servicing has been carried out in addition to mileage-based intervals.