2005 KIA Picanto 1.1L Petrol · LB05 VSL

The vehicle presents a concerning state of roadworthiness with a worsening trend regarding structural integrity and recurring mechanical neglect. While it passed the most recent test in January 2025 at 48,327 miles, the record reveals a history of significant structural failures and unresolved issues. The transition from a failure in January 2024 for excessive corrosion in the cab and chassis to a pass in early 2025 suggests major structural repairs were made, but the underlying condition of the metal remains a critical risk. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 21-year-old car, averaging only 2,301 miles per year. There is a notable gap in usage between August 2022 and August 2023, where the vehicle covered only 371 miles, indicating it may have been sitting for extended periods. This low usage explains the perishing of rubber components and cracking tyres noted across 2022, 2024, and 2025, as age-related dry-rot is clearly the primary driver of degradation rather than wear-based friction. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the inner sills and mounting points, as the history shows repeated instances of corrosion affecting structural strength. The 2025 test highlighted that brake pipes were heavily undersealed and covered in grease, which is often a tactic used to mask active corrosion from the tester. Close attention is required for the front CV boots and suspension arm ball joints, which have been flagged as deteriorated or having play multiple times between 2023 and 2025. The braking system also requires scrutiny due to reports of binding rear brakes in 2023 and thin pads in 2022. The minor exhaust leak identified in the 2025 test suggests the exhaust system is beginning to fail from age. Given the age of the vehicle and the history of severe structural failures, the likelihood of hidden internal rust within the chassis is high, making a professional underside inspection mandatory before any purchase.