2020 KIA Picanto 1.2L Petrol · LP69 AYH

The most recent MOT on 16 January 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the last six‑year period the MOT record shows a generally stable pattern: two isolated failures – a tyre‑related advisory and major defect in January 2025 and a wiper inefficiency in January 2023 – were each followed by a successful re‑test, and no further issues have been recorded since the 2025 re‑test. This suggests that any identified problems have been addressed promptly and that the overall maintenance trend is neither deteriorating nor markedly improving, but rather consistent with routine corrective action. With 23,683 miles on the clock at six years old, the Picanto averages just under 4,000 miles per annum, well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 thousand miles per year. Such low mileage often points to intermittent or predominantly short‑distance driving, which can be gentle on power‑train components but may allow moisture to settle in brake discs, tyres to age on the rim, and the battery to lose charge through prolonged periods of inactivity. The modest annual accumulation reduces the likelihood of wear‑related failures in the suspension, steering and drivetrain, yet it raises the importance of checking for age‑related degradation rather than mileage‑driven wear. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre condition. The 2025 MOT flagged a cut through the ply on the off‑side rear tyre and edge‑wear on the front‑left and rear‑right tyres, which may have been remedied but could also indicate a history of uneven loading or mis‑alignment. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth well above the legal 1.6 mm limit, look for sidewall cracking, dry rot or bulges, and verify that the cut on the rear‑right tyre has been repaired or the tyre replaced. During a test drive, listen for any thumping or vibration that could signal a concealed tyre defect, and note whether the steering pulls to one side, which would suggest lingering alignment or suspension bush wear. Beyond the tyres, examine the condition of the windscreen wipers and washer system, ensuring the blades clear the glass without streaking and that the washer fluid reservoir is full and free of contamination. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12‑volt battery should be tested for cranking amperage and inspected for terminal corrosion; a battery older than four years often requires replacement. Check the brake discs for surface rust, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods, and confirm that the pads have sufficient material. Finally, verify that the service book shows timely oil, coolant and brake‑fluid changes, as these fluids degrade with time even at low mileage, and look for any signs of corrosion on chassis mounting points, exhaust hangers and suspension joints that could have developed during extended idle periods.