2016 Ford Kuga 1.5L Petrol · LC16 ABN

The 2016 Ford Kuga’s latest MOT test on 2026-02-28 resulted in a passing grade, with the most notable advisory being front tyre wear close to the legal limit and edge wear on both front tyres. While this indicates ongoing attention to tyre management, the overall maintenance trend over the past three years appears to be relatively stable, with no repeated failures or major issues beyond the known advisories. The vehicle’s performance in previous MOTs has been consistent, though the 2025-02-21 test stands out as an outlier with a dangerous failure for excessive offside front wheel bearing play, which suggests a critical mechanical concern that should be addressed promptly. The presence of recurring brake disc and fluid leak advisories highlights areas requiring vigilance, particularly as wear progresses and potential structural or sealing issues develop. The recorded mileage of 86,288 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,629 miles per year, which is typical for this age group and reflects a moderate driving profile. Lower mileage could indicate periods of inactivity or lighter use, potentially leading to issues such as tyre perishing from prolonged standing, while higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems. The absence of significant mileage spikes or erratic usage patterns suggests that the vehicle has been maintained under consistent conditions, but the presence of the 2025-02-21 failure—particularly the dangerous wheel bearing play—implies that the offside front wheel assembly may have been subjected to unusual stress or wear over time. This warrants a thorough inspection of the wheel bearing and associated suspension linkages to preempt potential failure. For prospective buyers, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the front wheel assembly and braking system. The excessive wheel bearing play recorded in 2025-02-21 is a severe warning sign; during a test drive, listen for persistent humming, grinding, or clunking noises from the offside front wheel, especially at speed or when cornering. If these symptoms are confirmed, the bearing should be replaced without delay, as a failing bearing can lead to catastrophic wheel failure. Additionally, the front brake discs show recurring wear, with thin pad conditions noted in previous MOTs. Inspect the discs for grooving, warping, or uneven thickness, and listen for a grinding sound when braking—indicative of metal-to-metal contact. The fluid leak advisories suggest potential issues with the front suspension or steering components; check under the vehicle for oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks around the wheel hubs, suspension mounts, and steering rack. If leaks are present, the source should be identified and repaired to prevent further contamination of critical systems. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage necessitate a broader inspection of high-wear areas. Given the tyre advisories, particularly the edge wear, verify the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for cracks or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity over time. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can lead to degradation. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion or structural damage, ensuring emissions compliance and structural integrity, particularly given the vehicle’s age. Finally, since the last MOT was in February 2026, fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has been stored, ensure tyres are inflated to the correct pressure to prevent flat-spotting, and check for any signs of rust or corrosion on standing components, such as the chassis or wheel arches. A comprehensive service history should be reviewed to confirm adherence to manufacturer-recommended intervals for oil changes, suspension servicing, and other age-appropriate maintenance tasks.