2009 KIA Ceed 1.6L Petrol · LM09 LLA

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 March 2023 resulted in a pass, with two minor defects and one advisory recorded. The minor items concerned an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp, a recurring fault noted across several previous tests, and deteriorated inner constant velocity boots on the front drive shafts which were reported as weeping grease. The advisory for limited parking brake lever reserve travel is also notable. Looking at the broader history, the pattern over the last three MOT cycles shows a recurring theme of front lighting failures and lamp defects, with major defects recorded on both 18 March 2023 and 27 February 2020 for inoperative front position lamps and incorrect headlamp aim or bulb fitment. The vehicle also has a history of advisories relating to all CV boots weeping grease, oil leakage from the sump, a minor exhaust gas leak, and a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover. While the car has consistently passed its tests, the repeat lighting and CV boot issues suggest these areas require ongoing attention, and the overall trend indicates a vehicle that is maintained to a passable standard but with several wear-related items that have either been deferred or are progressing. The recorded mileage of 106,901 miles over approximately seventeen years equates to an annual average of around 6,288 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular but not intensive use. There are no extended periods of standing evident from the MOT record, with tests consistently carried out on an annual basis, suggesting the vehicle has remained in active use. However, it is worth noting that the recorded mileage between tests is relatively modest, and given the seventeen-year age, even at average annual mileage, significant wear should be expected on major consumable and structural items such as suspension components, exhaust system, and rubber elements throughout the drivetrain and chassis. The recurring CV boot issues are a particular concern that warrants thorough inspection, as the 2023 advisory specified severe deterioration of all inner CV boots with grease weeping, and this was also flagged as an advisory on the February 2021 test. On inspection, the buyer should check for fresh grease around the inner CV joint boots on both sides, listen for clicking or knocking noises from the front drivetrain during sharp turns, and feel for any vibration through the steering which could indicate worn constant velocity joints. The front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover was also flagged as severely deteriorated in February 2020, and these items should be examined for excessive play, torn gaiters, or any knocking or clunking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces. The advisory regarding parking brake lever reserve travel should be physically checked by applying the handbrake on an incline to confirm adequate holding force, as reduced reserve travel often indicates stretched or worn internal cables or shoes approaching the end of their service life. Given the vehicle's age and the advisories relating to oil leakage from the sump and a minor exhaust gas leak recorded in 2020, a prospective buyer should carry out a comprehensive under-bonnet and under-vehicle inspection. With the car being seventeen years old, particular attention should be paid to age-related degradation including perishing or cracking of tyre sidewalls regardless of tread depth, brake disc corrosion or surface pitting from periods of light use, and the condition of all rubber hoses, bushes, and gaiters. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, and all fluid services verified including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage. The exhaust system should be checked for rust, especially at mounting points and joints, and a thorough road test should be conducted listening for suspension knocks, brake shudder under firm application, and any unusual drivetrain noises, all of which would be consistent with a high-mileage, well-aged vehicle of this profile.