2022 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · LE71 EKK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 January 2026, was passed, with only an advisory concerning the front registration plate’s deterioration. The previous year’s testing shows a mixed picture: a failure on 13 February 2025 for excessive headlamp aim on both sides, which was evidently remedied before a subsequent pass on the same day, and recurring advisories that the nearside and off‑side rear tyres were worn close to the legal limit. Overall the trend suggests that routine maintenance is being performed, but the tyre wear and the earlier headlamp issue indicate that attention has been required on wear‑related items rather than a systemic decline in condition. At 39 453 miles the vehicle averages just under 10 000 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical usage envelope for a 2022 model. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply prolonged periods of inactivity, nor is there evidence of high‑speed, high‑load mileage that would accelerate wear of drivetrain components. Consequently the mileage alone does not raise red flags, but it does mean that consumables such as tyres, brake pads and discs, and the 12‑volt battery are now approaching the stage where age‑related degradation becomes a realistic concern. Prospective buyers should give the rear tyre condition priority. The MOT advisories from early 2025 indicate that both rear tyres were already close to the minimum tread depth and showing edge wear, a pattern that often points to mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes, or uneven tyre pressures. On a test drive listen for any thumping or wandering sensations, especially when cornering, and inspect the tyres for cracking, bulging, or uneven wear patterns that could signal camber or toe issues. Verify that the headlamp aim is now within legal limits – a mis‑aimed lamp can reduce night‑time visibility and may re‑appear if the mounting points have become loose. Also check that the front registration plate is legible and securely mounted, as a deteriorating plate can become a compliance problem. Given the vehicle’s age of four years, time‑based checks are advisable even if mileage is modest. Examine the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, as rubber can perish after six years regardless of tread depth. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the battery’s state of charge, particularly if the car has spent extended periods idle. Look for any signs of brake disc surface rust or uneven pad wear, which can develop when a vehicle sits for long intervals. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil, filter, and coolant changes at the manufacturer‑recommended intervals, and that any fluid replacements (brake fluid, gearbox oil) have been performed within the prescribed time frames to avoid degradation of seals and braking performance.