2010 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · FP10 HSJ

This Ford Kuga’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-23, just six months ago, confirms it passed but with persistent advisories that have not been resolved. The trend over the past year is concerning—four tests in five months, with two failures in February 2026 alone. The repeated advisories on oil-misted rear shocks, corroded coil springs, and a damaged front tyre indicate chronic neglect rather than isolated issues. The February 2026 failure also introduced a major fault for excessive emissions and a critically loose track rod end, suggesting underlying suspension and drivetrain instability. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the pattern of recurring advisories and the recent failure highlight a vehicle that has not received proper maintenance, leaving critical components at risk of imminent failure. The recorded mileage of 105,379 miles over 16 years averages around 6,586 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the MOT history reveals a period of intense usage or deferred maintenance between January 2025 and February 2026, with tests clustered within a three-month span. The gap between the 2025-01-30 pass and the first 2026 failure on 2026-02-06—just 28 days—implies either rapid wear or a delay in addressing prior advisories. The lack of a test between February 2026 and August 2026 also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven at all during this period, though the recent pass suggests it remains in motion. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the suspension components, particularly the rear shocks and coil springs, which have shown consistent corrosion and oil leakage. The February 2026 failure also flagged a major fault for the offside front track rod end, which requires urgent replacement to prevent steering instability. The front tyres, with repeated advisories on wear and damage, should be examined for uneven tread or structural compromise. Structural integrity is another concern—corrosion on the rear sub-frame, while not yet severe, warrants closer scrutiny for potential weakening. Emissions testing failed in February 2026, which could indicate issues with the catalytic converter or fuel system, though this was not repeated in the most recent pass. Given the history, a full suspension rebuild and brake inspection are advisable before committing to the purchase.