2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · LB67 FHT

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 14 March 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, representing a clean and reassuring outcome at the present time. Evaluating the broader trend across the recorded history, the maintenance profile is broadly stable rather than indicative of chronic neglect, though there has been a consistent pattern of tyre-related advisories spanning several test cycles. Between 2021 and 2025, the vehicle has accumulated advisories relating to edge wear and tread depth on both front and rear axles, culminating in a dangerous failure in March 2023 for a nearside front tyre with no visible tread pattern. Since this failure, however, the subsequent passes have shown progressively fewer tyre concerns, with the 2024 and 2026 tests recording no defects, suggesting that any underlying wheel alignment or tyre rotation issues may have been addressed or have not re-presented. With 74,790 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged around 9,349 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a family SUV of this age and segment. The mileage progression across the MOT history appears reasonably consistent without any significant gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor any unusual spikes that would indicate a particularly hard-driven previous life. This consistent usage pattern generally supports the assumption of regular operation, which is mechanically beneficial as it reduces the likelihood of seized brake calipers, deteriorated rubber components from disuse, and stale fluids, while ensuring that consumables such as tyres and brake friction materials have been worn in a relatively normal manner. For a prospective buyer, the recurring tyre edge wear advisories warrant particular attention during a physical inspection and test drive. Uneven or one-sided edge wear typically points to wheel alignment irregularities, worn suspension components, or incorrect inflation pressures, all of which are relevant given this vehicle's recorded history. During a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, control arm bush deterioration, or failing coil spring seats, all common on a Sportage of this mileage. Inspect the tyres closely for uneven wear patterns across the tread width, and verify that the sidewalls are free from cracking or perishing given that the vehicle is now eight years old, as rubber degradation occurs with calendar age irrespective of tread depth. The 2021 advisory regarding brake pads at approximately 85 percent worn suggests that a replacement has since been carried out, but the buyer should still check the current brake disc condition for lipping, hot spots, or corrosion pitting, and confirm that the calipers are sliding freely without any tendency to bind. Beyond the recorded history, a vehicle of this age and mileage requires due diligence on time-based servicing items that the MOT test does not cover. The brake fluid should have been renewed in line with manufacturer schedules, typically every two years, so its age and condition should be verified through service records. Similarly, the coolant and automatic transmission fluid, if applicable, should be checked for degradation, and the timing chain or belt interval confirmed against the documented service history. The 12V battery is also a likely candidate for replacement on an eight-year-old vehicle, so its state of health and date code should be examined. Finally, the exhaust system, including the catalytic converter and rear silencer, warrants a physical inspection for corrosion, particularly given the typical UK climate exposure, and any signs of blowing or rattling during a test drive should be investigated promptly.