2012 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · FY12 MBU

The 2025‑08‑29 MOT record shows that the 2012 Kia Sportage failed the test at 132,342 miles, with a tyre defect exposing ply or cords and a sump that was corroded and leaking, while the hand‑brake travel remained excessive. The earlier same‑day pass indicates that some items met the standard, but the failure dominates the outcome, signalling that the vehicle is not presently roadworthy. Repeated brake and suspension concerns, together with ongoing sump corrosion, reveal a maintenance trend that is worsening rather than stabilising. The mileage has risen from 50,278 miles in September 2016 to 132,342 miles by August 2025, a gain of roughly 9,450 miles per year, which aligns with the vehicle’s 14‑year age and reflects steady use rather than abrupt high‑speed accumulation. The interval between the 2018 and 2020 tests spans two years with an increase of about 22,000 miles, still within the expected annual range. Recurring faults point to areas that a buyer must examine on site: the lower suspension ball joints show persistent play, the rear anti‑roll bar linkage is flagged as likely to detach, and the rear brake discs and pads exhibit wear, pitting and reduced thickness; the front brake hoses display ferrule corrosion, and the parking brake efficiency remains below the required 50 % threshold. Tyre condition is concerning, with multiple instances of tread worn close to the legal limit and a recent failure due to exposed cords, while the sump corrosion and leaking suggest structural rust that could compromise chassis integrity. A prospective purchaser should verify the condition of the suspension components, inspect the brake system for disc thickness, pad wear and hose integrity, assess tyre tread depth and sidewall condition, and look for any fresh rust on the sump or surrounding chassis. Confirmation that the hand‑brake and parking‑brake systems operate within specification is also essential before final acceptance.