2017 Ford Kuga 1.5L Petrol · LO66 VLT

The most recent MOT on 9 February 2026 was passed, but it carried several advisories that indicate a gradual decline in component condition. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a clean record in 2020‑2022 to a series of wear‑related advisories in 2023‑2025, suggesting that consumables are now approaching the end of their service life rather than improving. The pattern shows a steady accumulation of tyre wear, brake pad thinning and rear brake disc degradation, which points to a maintenance regime that has been adequate to keep the car road‑worthy but is now lagging behind the natural wear rate. At 51 068 miles for a nine‑year‑old Ford Kuga the annual average is roughly 5 700 miles, well below the typical UK usage of around 10‑12 000 miles per year. Such low mileage often reflects periods of limited use or long spells of standing, which can be as detrimental as high mileage for certain parts. The relatively low cumulative distance means that major drivetrain wear such as timing chain stretch or engine bearing fatigue is unlikely, but the prolonged idle periods can accelerate rubber ageing, battery sulphation and corrosion of brake components, especially where moisture has been allowed to sit on the rear shock absorber. Prospective buyers should focus on the tyre condition first. All four tyres have been flagged as close to the legal tread limit, with the nearside rear tyre already noted as worn on the edge. Inspect the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulges and verify that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm across the entire width; any uneven wear may point to misaligned suspension or worn steering bushes. During a test drive listen for thumping or vibration that could indicate a tyre that is near the end of its service life. The rear brake disc has been described as pitted and scored, and the rear off‑side pad is thin; this combination can cause brake pulsation, reduced stopping distance and a faint grinding noise under hard braking. Plan for a rear disc resurfacing or replacement together with fresh pads on both rear wheels, and consider inspecting the front pads which were already thin in 2023. The off‑side rear shock absorber shows light oil misting, a sign of seal wear that may lead to reduced damping and increased body roll; a leaking shock should be replaced rather than merely topped up. Finally, because the vehicle has spent considerable time stationary, check the registration plate for legibility and replace it if the deterioration is evident. Examine the battery for sulphation, especially the electrolyte level if it is a conventional lead‑acid type, and have the charging system tested under load. Look for signs of corrosion on the chassis, wheel arches and brake caliper pins, which can develop on cars that sit unused for long periods. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been refreshed according to the service schedule rather than simply topped up, as age‑related degradation can affect performance even with low mileage. A thorough visual inspection of suspension bushings, tie‑rod ends and any rust on the under‑body will give a clearer picture of the car’s overall health before committing to purchase.