2021 KIA Sportage 2 Crdi ISG Mhev S-A 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · LD21 ABK

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2021 Kia Sportage was conducted on 6 March 2026, at which the vehicle was recorded as passing. However, three advisories were issued by the examiner, all of which warrant careful attention from a prospective purchaser. The first two advisories relate to both rear tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the inner or outer edge, while the third notes wear to a pin or bush on the offside rear suspension trailing arm, though not yet resulting in excessive movement. Although the vehicle has passed three consecutive MOT tests with no advisory-free outcome, the cluster of advisories on the latest examination suggests components are approaching their service limits. The trajectory of the maintenance record indicates a stable but declining mechanical condition, rather than an improving trend, and the advisories should be considered as imminent replacement items rather than minor observations. The recorded mileage of 57,027 miles over approximately five years equates to an annual average of around 11,405 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and type. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage progression that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor is there any indication of unusually rapid accumulation that would imply hard use or high-mileage wear patterns. This steady and moderate usage generally favours mechanical longevity, as the engine, transmission, and associated drivetrain components will have been subjected to regular warm-up cycles and consistent loading. For a diesel-hybrid mild hybrid automatic such as this Sportage, this mileage profile is entirely consistent with what would be expected of a family SUV used for mixed commuting and occasional longer journeys. Given the advisories recorded at the most recent test, a prospective buyer should conduct a focused inspection of the rear axle and suspension components. The advisory regarding the offside rear suspension arm bush or pin warrants particular attention, as trailing arm bushes degrade progressively and can manifest as clonking noises over speed humps or uneven road surfaces, vague rear handling, or uneven tyre wear across the rear axle. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking, rattling, or excessive road noise transmitted through the rear suspension, and check that the vehicle tracks straight without drifting. The rear tyre advisories are strongly suggestive of either a suspension geometry issue exacerbating inner or outer edge wear, or simply age-related wear given the vehicle's age. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth, ensuring a minimum of 3mm to allow safety margin above the legal 1.6mm limit, and verify that the sidewalls show no signs of perishing, cracking, or bulging, which is a common age-related concern on tyres fitted to lower-mileage vehicles of this age. Beyond the advisories, age-appropriate inspections remain highly relevant for a five-year-old diesel hybrid. Brake discs and calipers may exhibit corrosion or surface pitting from weather exposure, particularly on the rear axle, and caliper slide pins can seize if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods, leading to uneven pad wear or brake drag. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking strength and state of charge, as batteries typically require replacement within four to six years and failure is common at this stage. Diesel fuel systems benefit from regular use, so verify there are no stored fuel-related advisories and confirm that the vehicle starts promptly from cold. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid all degrade with calendar age rather than mileage alone, and it would be prudent to request evidence of recent fluid services within the service history. Finally, verify that the hybrid system warning lights and emissions control systems are functioning correctly, as any illuminated dashboard warnings or stored diagnostic trouble codes relating to the diesel particulate filter or emissions system would warrant immediate investigation by a Kia-authorised workshop prior to purchase.