2015 Ford Kuga 1.5L Petrol · GL15 FDX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 21 August 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past five years the majority of tests have also been passed, with only isolated advisories and a single serious failure in September 2023 when three front‑wheel nuts were missing and brake performance could not be verified. That failure was remedied and the car subsequently passed the same day, after which the record shows clean passes in 2024 and 2025. The pattern therefore suggests a generally stable maintenance regime, albeit with a notable lapse in wheel‑nut security that should be verified as correctly torqued. At eleven years old the Kuga has logged 61,691 miles, an average of roughly 5,600 miles per year, which is well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles annually. The low annual mileage points to relatively light duty, possibly including periods of inactivity. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, it can also allow moisture to settle in suspension bushings, brake discs and seals, and may encourage tyre sidewall cracking from age rather than tread wear. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would indicate a period of heavy use, so the wear profile should be consistent with a vehicle that has seen moderate, gentle driving. When inspecting the vehicle, pay particular attention to the off‑side front wheel that was flagged as slightly distorted in 2023. Look for any wobble or vibration at speed, uneven tyre wear, or loose spokes, and confirm that all five wheel nuts are present and correctly torqued. The off‑side rear tyre carries a shallow cut; although it did not breach the ply, it should be examined for any progression of the damage, especially under side loads, and the tyre’s overall age should be checked – if the sidewall shows cracking or the tyre is over six years old, replacement is advisable. The rear shock absorber was noted with light oil misting, a sign of seal wear that can lead to reduced damping and increased body roll; a test drive should reveal any clunking over bumps or a softer ride, and a qualified mechanic should assess whether the shock needs re‑seal or replacement. The 2022 headlamp aim failures, though corrected, merit a quick visual check to ensure the beams are correctly centred and do not dazzle oncoming traffic. Given the vehicle’s age, even with low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is prudent. Examine the tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot or cracking, as rubber degrades with time regardless of tread depth. Verify the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of sulphation, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Inspect all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and note the dates of the last changes; calendar‑based replacement is recommended roughly every 12‑24 months. Look for corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and brake caliper pins, and ensure that suspension bushes and control arm bushings are free of excessive play or cracking. Finally, confirm that the service booklet is up to date with regular oil changes, filter replacements and any manufacturer‑specified timing‑belt or chain service, as these are key indicators of diligent upkeep on a low‑mileage, older vehicle.