2009 KIA Soul 1.6L Petrol · LB59 DYC

The most recent DVSA examination on 9 December 2025 recorded a PASS with no defects or advisories noted, which represents the cleanest possible test outcome for a vehicle of this age. Reviewing the broader history, the Kia Soul has now achieved four consecutive passes at its annual tests in December 2022, November 2024, and December 2025, with the only recorded failure being an earlier entry on 9 December 2022 that itself shows no recorded defects — a likely administrative or retest situation rather than a significant mechanical concern. This is a notably consistent and reassuring maintenance trend, suggesting that the vehicle has been diligently prepared for its annual roadworthiness examinations and has not developed any recurring or progressive defects that an examiner has chosen to flag. With 128,597 miles on a 2009 registration, the Soul has covered roughly 7,565 miles per year on average, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a 17-year-old car. There is no evidence in the MOT log of unusually long standing periods or erratic mileage jumps between tests, which means the wear patterns on major mechanical components such as the clutch, suspension, braking system, and drivetrain are likely to be consistent rather than skewed by extended inactivity or unusual high-mileage years. This steady, moderate rate of use tends to be favourable for longevity because it avoids both the corrosion risks of long-standing and the accelerated wear associated with very high annual mileages. Given the completely clean MOT record and absence of any advisories across four consecutive tests, there is no specific defect history to investigate further, but a buyer should nonetheless conduct age- and mileage-appropriate physical checks that MOT testing does not fully cover. Tyres warrant close inspection for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and a 17-year-old vehicle is well within the range where dry-rot can be present. Brake calipers, especially on the rear drums or sliding mechanisms, may have developed corrosion or binding from periods of lighter use, and the discs should be checked for lip wear, surface corrosion, and evenness of application, as a binding caliper will manifest as uneven pad wear or a dragging sensation after driving. The exhaust system, including the catalytic converter, mounts, and rear silencer, should be inspected for rust perforation and blown joints, since these are common MOT failure points on vehicles of this age. Beyond the mechanical and rubber items, time-based servicing should be prioritised because MOT testing does not cover fluid condition or internal engine wear. The 12V battery should be load-tested or replaced as a matter of course given its age, as failures are common in older vehicles and can leave a buyer stranded. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) all degrade on a calendar basis and ideally require replacement roughly every two to four years irrespective of mileage, so the service book should be scrutinised for evidence of these items being addressed. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks over bumps, which could indicate worn bushes or top mounts, watch for brake shudder under firm application suggesting warped discs, and check for any hesitation or smoke from the exhaust on startup, all of which would warrant further investigation even though none have yet been flagged by an examiner.