2005 KIA Sportage 2.7L Petrol · LB05 CHL

The vehicle remains roadworthy, though the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive repairs rather than proactive care. While the most recent MOT test in July 2025 at 161,282 miles passed with only a minor advisory regarding a clouded headlamp, the preceding years show recurring mechanical weaknesses. Since June 2022, the vehicle has moved from a state of multiple failing components to a more stable passing record, suggesting that the owner now addresses faults only when they result in a test failure. At 21 years old with 161,282 miles, the Sportage has followed a consistent usage pattern of approximately 7,700 miles per year. The data shows steady accumulation, with roughly 15,500 miles covered between June 2023 and June 2024, and another 5,500 miles before the July 2025 test. This regularity suggests the vehicle has not sat stationary for long periods, which helps prevent the degradation of rubber components and seals despite the vehicle's age. A buyer must scrutinise the front suspension, as the nearside front shock absorber was flagged for oil misting in both 2022 and 2023. The exhaust system also represents a point of concern; a flex pipe leak was noted as very poor in 2022 and persisted as a minor leak into 2023. You should verify if the entire exhaust assembly has been replaced or check if the anti-roll bar linkages, which failed in 2022, show any signs of play or perished boots. Tyre maintenance also indicates a history of neglected consumables, with multiple entries for perished rubber, nails, and low tread depth across 2022 and 2024. The 2024 test specifically noted a nearside front tyre worn to the legal limit, suggesting the owner waits until failure before replacement. Given the age and mileage, a thorough physical inspection for structural corrosion on the sills and subframe is essential, as the MOT record does not provide detail on the current state of the chassis.