2011 KIA RIO 1.4L Petrol · LB11 VLS

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that has shifted from stable to worsening over the last three years. While the most recent test on 15 July 2026 at 114,978 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle carries a heavy load of recurring advisories. Specifically, the corrosion of all four coil springs has been a persistent issue since at least 2024, and the brake discs continue to show signs of pitting and scoring. The failure in July 2025 at 109,553 miles highlighted significant deterioration in the steering and suspension components, including excessive play in the offside front track rod end and perishing rear suspension bushes. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,665 miles per year. The record shows steady usage from 2015 through to 2026, with no significant periods of inactivity or sudden spikes in mileage. This predictable usage pattern suggests the vehicle has been a regular commuter, which explains the gradual wear on consumables and the onset of age-related corrosion. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the underside and suspension assembly. The repeated advisories for corroded coil springs across multiple years suggest that while the components have not yet failed, the structural integrity of the spring steel is declining. The tester also flagged a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber during the July 2025 failure, so the condition of the dampers should be verified. Braking components require close scrutiny. The history shows a pattern of binding brakes and pitted discs dating back to 2019 and 2020. Although the recent pass indicates the vehicle is currently legal, the recurring issues with brake pipes and discs suggest that the braking system is nearing a stage where significant component replacement will be necessary. Finally, check the condition of the registration plate and ensure the recent replacement of track rod ends and tyres has been carried out to a high standard.