2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Diesel · LB18 ORC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 August 2026, was passed but returned three advisories – slight damage to both rear tyres on the inner edge of the tread, and marginal wear on the rear‑ward trailing‑arm mounting bushes on both sides. Over the preceding five years the pattern has been one of recurring wear items rather than new faults: tyre edge wear and rear‑suspension bush wear have been noted each year, while brake‑pad thinning and a rear‑disc wear advisory appeared in 2022 and 2023 respectively. The trend is therefore stable in the sense that no catastrophic failures have emerged, but the wear‑related advisories are persistent and indicate components that will soon require replacement if they have not already been addressed. At 67 751 mi the vehicle averages roughly 8 500 mi per annum, which sits comfortably within the UK average for a family SUV of this age. The mileage record shows no large gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity, nor any spikes that would point to unusually hard use. Consequently the wear observed on the tyres, suspension bushes and brake components is consistent with normal calendar‑and‑mileage degradation rather than excessive abuse, but the cumulative effect of eight years on the road means that age‑related deterioration of rubber, metal and fluid integrity should be expected. A prospective buyer should give the rear tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any cuts, bulges, sidewall cracking or uneven tread wear that could be a consequence of the “stepping to profile” advisory; measure tread depth with a gauge and confirm it exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit on all four corners. While on the road, listen for a faint thump or clunk when the vehicle is driven over bumps, especially from the rear, which would betray excessive play in the trailing‑arm bushes. Any looseness or a vague wandering feel in cornering may indicate that the bushes are approaching the end of their service life and should be replaced promptly. The brake system also warrants close attention: the off‑side front pads were flagged as thin in 2025 and the front pads were similarly noted in 2022, while the rear disc showed wear in 2023. Check pad thickness at the service centre, feel for any pulsation or shudder under firm braking, and verify that the calipers are not binding or leaking fluid. Replacing the pads and resurfacing or changing the rear disc before they reach the minimum thickness will avoid costly wear‑related damage and maintain safe stopping distances. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle’s age calls for a series of time‑based checks. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage; an eight‑year‑old battery is likely approaching the end of its useful life. Examine the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise structural integrity. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed at the manufacturer‑specified intervals – fluid degradation can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, brake fade and accelerated engine wear. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for major services such as timing‑belt or chain replacement (if applicable) and that any recommended tyre or suspension component replacements noted in the MOT advisories have been carried out, preferably with a qualified mechanic’s sign‑off before finalising the purchase.