2005 KIA Picanto 1.0L Petrol · LR05 AHN

The 2024‑06‑12 MOT passed the vehicle, recording 102,425 miles and issuing only a minor advisory for light misting of oil on the near‑side rear shock absorber (5.3.2 (b)). The preceding 2024‑06‑07 test failed due to excessive exhaust CO, play in both rear and off‑side front wheel bearings, near‑side rear brake binding, a serious fluid leak from the off‑side rear shock, and parking‑brake efficiency below 50 %. This pattern shows a mixed maintenance trend: recent work has cleared the most severe defects, yet recurring suspension and brake faults indicate that previous owners have not consistently addressed underlying wear. Mileage has risen steadily from 15,088 miles in March 2012 to the current 102,425 miles, averaging roughly 4,877 miles per year over the vehicle’s 21‑year life. The annual increments are modest but continuous, with no extended periods of inactivity evident between the 2023 (93,663 mi) and 2024 (102,425 mi) tests, suggesting regular use rather than long‑term storage. A buyer should inspect the rear suspension components closely, paying particular attention to the near‑side rear shock absorber for oil seepage or fluid leaks, and verify that the rear wheel bearings exhibit no excessive play. The near‑side rear brake binding noted in earlier tests warrants a thorough examination of the brake calipers, discs and pads, while the parking‑brake efficiency shortfall demands a check of the hand‑brake mechanism and associated cables. Corrosion on the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, recorded in 2021 and 2022, should be assessed for structural integrity, and the coil springs, flagged for corrosion in 2021, merit visual inspection for rust or fatigue. Overall, the vehicle is presently roadworthy but exhibits persistent suspension and brake concerns that could compromise safety if left unaddressed. A prospective purchaser should arrange a detailed mechanical survey focusing on the identified wear points, and consider immediate replacement of worn suspension parts and a full brake system overhaul before committing to the purchase.