2009 KIA Soul 1.6L Petrol · FP59 XJT

This 2009 Kia Soul presents a mixed maintenance picture with a stable but ageing mechanical condition. The most recent MOT on 13 October 2025 at 122,823 miles resulted in a pass after an initial fail on the same day for an offside headlamp aim defect, which was promptly rectified. However, the advisory items carried forward from the failure inspection reveal a pattern of gradual component fatigue rather than acute mechanical failure. Both front suspension arm pins and bushes were worn, though not to the point of excessive movement, and both front constant velocity boots were severely deteriorated. The offside rear shock absorber was also noted with a light oil misting. These items were flagged as advisories, meaning they did not cause a retest failure, but they indicate a vehicle that is accumulating age-related wear without a clear evidence of recent proactive suspension or drivetrain renewal. The mileage progression tells a story of consistent but modest use. Between 20 October 2023 at 104,423 miles and 15 October 2024 at 111,538 miles, the car covered approximately 7,015 miles in twelve months. From that October 2024 test through to the October 2025 test at 122,823 miles, the vehicle added 11,285 miles, a notable increase in annual rate. This jump suggests heavier recent use, possibly longer commutes or sustained motorway driving, which would accelerate wear on consumables and suspension components. The overall annualised average of roughly 7,225 miles across the vehicle's seventeen-year life sits comfortably within typical UK norms, so there is no immediate concern about mileage anomalies or suspected clocking. The recurring themes across the MOT history centre on suspension compliance, drivetrain sealing, and minor electrical defects. Anti-roll bar bushes appeared worn in October 2024, and suspension arm bushes were flagged in October 2025, suggesting the front-end compliance bushes have been deteriorating incrementally over at least two years. The constant velocity boot deterioration has appeared in both the October 2023 and October 2025 records, indicating either repeated neglect of this component or that replacement boots have not held up. A buyer should physically inspect the front suspension for play and deterioration, paying close attention to the inner wishbone bushes and CV joint boots for splits or grease ejection. The offside rear shock absorber misting warrants a close visual check for active fluid leakage, as this can progress to damping failure. The intermittent registration plate lamp failures and headlamp aim issues are minor but suggest the electrical and lighting systems have not been meticulously maintained. A thorough test drive over broken surfaces will reveal whether the worn bushes have introduced any vagueness or knocking from the front end, and the rear damper should be assessed for bounce and damping control.