2016 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · LB65 VKR

The 2016 KIA Sportage has maintained a clean MOT history with no defects recorded across all five tests, including the most recent pass on 25 July 2025 at 60,706 miles. This suggests the vehicle has been consistently roadworthy without major recurring issues, though the single failure in May 2024—though technically a pass due to no defects—stands out as an anomaly. The absence of advisories or repeated faults implies the owner has addressed minor wear promptly, though the brief failure window warrants scrutiny of the specific test criteria that day. Overall, the trend is stable, with no evidence of worsening mechanical conditions. Mileage progression shows a steady accumulation of approximately 6,071 miles annually, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2021 and 2023 tests—spanning 2,245 miles over 18 months—is unusually low, suggesting either reduced usage or a period of storage. Conversely, the rapid mileage jump from 42,774 to 55,174 miles between January 2023 and May 2024 indicates heavier usage in that period. While this pattern doesn’t inherently signal neglect, it does imply accelerated wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components over time. Given the clean MOT record, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on high-wear items that aren’t routinely checked in the MOT process. The suspension—particularly the rear coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for uneven sagging or excessive play, as these components degrade gradually and aren’t always flagged until they fail. Brake discs and pads, while not failed in tests, may show uneven wear or glazing, especially if the vehicle was driven heavily between 2023 and 2024. Corrosion at wheel arches, subframes, and sills is another critical area, as the Sportage’s underbody is prone to rust progression over a decade. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or broken hangers, as catalytic converter failures are common in this model and often go unnoticed until emissions tests fail.