2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · LC68 AWU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend shows a developing pattern of deferred brake servicing. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 39,042 miles identified thin rear brake pads and a high handbrake lever, this represents a progression from previous years where only the front pads were flagged. The overall history remains stable but suggests the owner is waiting until components approach failure before replacement rather than following proactive maintenance intervals. The mileage profile is consistently low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,800 miles per year. There is a notable gap in records between December 2021 and December 2022, where the vehicle covered 4,832 miles, but since early 2024, usage has remained steady at roughly 2,700 miles per annual test cycle. This low mileage often leads to age degradation of rubber-based components such as suspension bushes and tyres, which can dry out during long periods of standing. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system to address the handbrake lever issue noted in 2026 and replace the worn rear pads. The recurring nature of thin brake pads across 2022, 2024, and 2026 indicates a need to check the discs for glazing or pitting caused by infrequent use. Additionally, given the low mileage and age of the vehicle, inspect the brake hoses for cracking and ensure the brake calipers are not seized due to lack of regular movement.