2004 KIA Sorento 2.5L Diesel · LC54 KZV

The 2004 KIA Sorento’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-17 at 95,108 miles passed without defects, though the preceding test just three months earlier on 2025-12-11 at 95,077 miles failed for an unspecified reason—despite identical mileage. This abrupt failure followed a pattern of alternating pass/fail results in 2024 at 88,081 miles, suggesting either a single undetected but recurring issue or inconsistent test conditions. The lack of recorded defects in any test implies either a flaw in the MOT system’s specificity for this model or that critical components were not thoroughly scrutinised. Buyers should treat this as a red flag: the vehicle’s roadworthiness cannot be confidently assessed without a deeper inspection, particularly since the most recent pass came just five months ago. The recorded mileage of 95,108 miles over 22 years—roughly 4,323 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, indicating either minimal use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests (80,229 to 88,081 miles) spans 11 months with 7,852 miles accumulated, while the subsequent interval (88,081 to 95,077 miles) covers just 11 months with only 7,000 miles. This erratic pattern suggests the vehicle was not driven consistently, which could accelerate wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components due to prolonged static loading. The absence of mileage progression between the 2025 pass and fail at nearly identical readings (95,077 vs. 95,108) further raises suspicion of either tampered odometers or a vehicle that has sat unused for extended periods. Given the inconsistent MOT history and low mileage, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system—particularly rear coil springs and bushes—where corrosion and fatigue are common in older Kias. The repeated failures at similar mileages warrant checking for binding rear brakes, which often develop after periods of disuse, or worn brake discs that may have just passed visual inspection but are nearing failure. Structural integrity should also be assessed, as rust in wheel arches, sills, or the subframe can compromise safety without obvious external signs. The lack of recorded defects does not negate the need for thorough scrutiny; the vehicle’s history suggests either a history of neglect or a pattern of evading critical inspections.