2022 KIA Sportage 3 ISG 1.6L Petrol · LC72 VBV

The most recent official DVSA MOT test for this 2022 KIA SPORTAGE 3 ISG was conducted on 6 October 2025, at which point the vehicle passed with no advisories or failures recorded against it. While the MOT record is limited to a single entry within the testing window, the clean pass indicates that the core roadworthy items — including braking efficiency, suspension condition, tyres, lighting, emissions, and structural integrity — were deemed compliant at the time of inspection. Given the absence of any advisory notes, there is no documented pattern of deterioration in any particular component area, suggesting that the vehicle has been maintained to a satisfactory standard up to this point. That said, a single clean pass should not be interpreted as a full mechanical guarantee, particularly as MOT testing does not cover engine condition, clutch operation, or interior electrical systems, nor does it assess the quality of consumables that may be approaching the end of their functional life. With a recorded mileage of 18,651 miles over approximately four years, this Sportage is averaging around 4,663 miles per year, which sits well below the national average and points towards either predominantly light-duty use, a significant period of inactivity, or a combination of both. Low annual mileage is generally favourable for long-term mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, as it reduces cumulative stress on internal components. The downside of such low usage is that some components can deteriorate through standing rather than active service, which is a critical consideration here. Braking systems can suffer from seized or binding calipers, brake disc corrosion can lead to juddering under initial pedal application, and the 12-volt battery is highly susceptible to sulphation and premature failure when the vehicle is left unused for extended intervals. Furthermore, moisture can accumulate within the engine oil, gearbox fluid, and differential, reducing their protective qualities over calendar time regardless of mileage covered. From a practical inspection standpoint, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical appraisal beginning with the tyres. Tyres fitted to vehicles with low mileage often exhibit more pronounced sidewall cracking and perishing than actual tread wear, particularly on the rear axle where wear rates are lower. The date code on the sidewall should be scrutinised, and any evidence of UV degradation or hardening of the rubber should be noted, as this can compromise grip even when tread depth remains within legal limits. The braking system should be carefully examined with the wheels removed where possible, looking for pitting or lipping on the disc edges, signs of seized caliper slide pins, and the condition of the flexible brake hoses. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any scraping or grinding from the brakes on first application, and feel for any pulling to one side which could indicate a binding caliper. The 12-volt battery warrants a load test, as a battery that has discharged repeatedly through lack of use may still crank the engine initially but fail under demand from the vehicle's electronic systems. Other time-based servicing items deserve close attention given the calendar age of the vehicle. Engine oil and oil filter should have been renewed at least annually regardless of mileage, and the service book or digital service history should be inspected to confirm these intervals have been observed. Coolant and brake fluid are both hygroscopic and degrade on a two-year cycle, meaning the original fluids fitted in 2022 will likely be due for replacement imminently. The exhaust system should be checked for external corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints, as standing vehicles in damp conditions can suffer accelerated rust-through. Under the bonnet, the buyer should look for signs of rodent activity, perished rubber hoses, and any evidence of coolant or oil leaks from gaskets and seals that may have dried out. A final consideration is verifying that all electronic systems operate correctly, including infotainment, climate control, parking sensors, and any driver assistance features, as intermittent faults from aged electrical connections can be difficult to detect during a brief viewing.