2010 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · LL60 HCG

The most recent MOT test on 12 January 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of examination. However, just four days earlier the same vehicle failed with multiple significant issues, including a dangerously worn rear brake pad measuring less than 1.5 mm, imbalanced rear brake performance across axle two, a parking brake efficiency below the required standard, a non-functioning offside front headlamp on dipped beam, and an inoperative nearside rear stop lamp. The combination of a dangerous failure followed almost immediately by a clean pass suggests that remedial work was carried out in that four-day window, and it is essential for any prospective buyer to obtain documentary evidence confirming exactly what components were replaced or rectified. The presence of a dangerous brake pad and imbalance issue is a serious indicator of neglect on the rear braking system, and the parking brake deficiency raises concerns about the rear caliper mechanisms, cables, or adjusters, all of which should be thoroughly verified on inspection. Earlier advisories in January 2025 noted both front and rear brake pads wearing thin, demonstrating that brake wear had been flagged a full year before the dangerous failure, which suggests the previous owner did not act on those advisories in a timely manner. The recorded mileage of 120,135 miles over a sixteen-year working life equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 7,500 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with mixed private and light commercial usage. The MOT history displays consecutive annual tests from 2021 through 2026 with no apparent extended gaps or rapid mileage escalation between examinations, suggesting reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of standing or excessive motorway mileage. This kind of steady usage is mechanically favourable in some respects, as components are less likely to suffer from corrosion through inactivity, but it does mean that the vehicle has accumulated wear on suspension bushes, engine mounts, clutch and drivetrain components, and exhaust system flex sections. Given the age and mileage, attention should be focused on those wear items that do not appear in the MOT record but are commonly affected in higher-mileage diesel or petrol SUVs of this generation. Because the MOT history shows recurring tyre-related advisories, including front tyres worn to the legal limit on edge in both 2021 and 2024, and a dangerous failure for sub-legal tread depth on both front tyres in 2022, the buyer should pay particular attention to the current condition of all four tyres and any replacement set fitted since. Worn-on-edge patterns typically indicate incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or distorted strut top mounts, all of which are common failure points on the Ford Kuga and warrant a physical inspection of the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and tracking geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front end, and check for any pulling to one side under braking or acceleration. Additionally, given the brake-related defects, the buyer should perform a firm pedal test for excessive travel or sponginess, observe whether the vehicle pulls under braking, and check for any binding or dragging sensation that could indicate a sticking rear caliper or a seized handbrake mechanism. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, a sixteen-year-old vehicle with this mileage demands careful scrutiny of several age-related concerns that may not yet appear on the test record. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which is common on older rubber regardless of remaining tread depth, and verify that the spare wheel or inflation kit is present and serviceable. Check the 12V battery for signs of weakness such as slow cranking or dashboard flicker on start-up, as battery life is typically five to six years and this vehicle is well beyond that. Examine the exhaust system, including the flex joint and catalytic converter mounting, for corrosion or blowing, and inspect underbonnet fluid reservoirs for evidence of leaks, discolouration, or neglect of scheduled servicing. Finally, verify the service book stamps and confirm the timing belt or chain replacement interval appropriate to the engine variant, as a missed timing chain service on a Kuga of this age can result in catastrophic engine damage, and ensure all warning lamps extinguish promptly after ignition before committing to purchase.