2012 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · GV62 BDU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of deferred mechanical repairs. While it passed its latest test in January 2026 at 104,022 miles, the record shows recurring faults with the steering and braking components. The persistent issue of play in the offside front steering rack inner joint appears in every annual test since 2023 at 89,220 miles, indicating that this component has not been replaced despite multiple years of testing. At 104,022 miles over 14 years, the Sportage has averaged approximately 7,400 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression is consistent, with roughly 4,700 miles covered between the January 2025 and January 2026 tests. However, the January 2025 report of low oil levels (2 litres in) and low coolant at 99,333 miles suggests the previous owner occasionally neglected basic fluid maintenance despite the relatively low annual mileage. A buyer must prioritize an inspection of the steering system and braking assembly. The recurring steering rack inner joint play is a significant concern that affects handling precision and tyre wear if left addressed. The braking system shows a history of neglect; the 2024 failure for fluctuating rear brakes and pitted discs was followed by a 2026 advisory for thin rear pads and worn/scored discs on both front wheels. This pattern suggests the owner only replaces components when they reach the point of MOT failure rather than performing preventative maintenance. The secondary bonnet catch has also been noted as stiff for three consecutive years, which is a minor but requires attention to ensure the housing remains secure at speeds.