2016 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · LR11 MJR

A recent history of component-specific failures suggests a pattern of wear in steering and lighting systems, though the vehicle has maintained a passing status through its most recent test on 29 May 2026. While the two most recent inspections show no defects, the failure recorded on 13 October 2025 for excessive play in the offside front track rod end ball joint and incorrect headlamp aim indicates that mechanical components have reached the end of their service life at certain intervals. The transition from a failure in late 2025 to a clean pass in mid-2026 indicates that the identified steering defect was addressed, but the presence of such failures in a relatively recent window warrants attention to the current state of the front-end steering geometry. The vehicle has covered 83,895 miles over approximately ten years, representing an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,390 miles. This usage profile is consistent with typical domestic driving patterns for a vehicle of this age. From a mechanical perspective, this moderate mileage suggests that while the drivetrain and major engine components may not have reached extreme wear levels, consumables such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and braking components will be subject to standard age-related degradation. The steady mileage progression suggests the vehicle has been in regular use rather than sitting stationary for extended periods, which typically helps prevent issues related to seized components or fluid degradation. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and front suspension during a test drive, specifically looking for any signs of the play previously noted in the track rod end. Listen for any clicking or knocking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when navigating uneven surfaces, as these can indicate worn ball joints or tie rod ends. Additionally, check for any pulling to one side or a wandering sensation through the steering wheel, which could suggest that the steering geometry or wheel alignment has not been correctly rectified following the previous failures. The historical advisory regarding nearside rear tyre wear on the edge should also be considered. While this was recorded in 2021, it is worth inspecting the current condition of the tyre tread and sidewalls to ensure there is no uneven wear pattern. Uneven wear on the edges of a tyre often points to incorrect camber angles or worn suspension bushes. During the test drive, observe if the vehicle tracks straight under braking and check for any vibrations through the steering column or floorpan that might indicate issues with the wheel bearings or suspension linkages.