2012 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · LS12 TUP

The most recent MOT on 30 March 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently meets the statutory safety standards. Over the seven‑year MOT record the pattern shows a single major failure in April 2023 – a fractured nearside rear coil spring – followed by a series of passes, albeit with advisories concerning rear anti‑roll bar links (2024) and an inside‑edge tyre wear issue (2023). The absence of further failures suggests that the major fault was remedied and that the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory has stabilised, though the recurring advisories point to a need for continued attention to the rear suspension and tyre condition. At 115,929 miles the Sportage averages roughly 8,300 miles per year, which is modest for a fourteen‑year‑old SUV and implies a relatively gentle usage pattern. There are no large mileage gaps in the MOT record, so the odometer reading is likely representative of actual use rather than a long period of storage. This annual mileage places the vehicle well within the typical wear envelope for its age, meaning that major wear items such as engine bearings, timing chain and transmission are unlikely to be at the end of life solely because of mileage, but age‑related degradation of rubber and metal components should still be expected. Prospective buyers should focus the inspection on the rear suspension, particularly the coil spring that failed in 2023 and the anti‑roll bar links flagged in 2024. Visually check both rear coil springs for signs of fatigue, cracks or uneven coil spacing, and feel for any clunk or thud when applying a firm bounce to the rear corners – a symptom of a weakened spring or worn bushings. Examine the anti‑roll bar links and their bushings for excessive play, corrosion or cracked rubber; any looseness can cause body roll and uneven tyre wear. The advisory about the outer‑side rear tyre being worn smooth on the inside edge suggests mis‑alignment or worn suspension geometry – a test‑drive should include a careful inspection for pulling to one side, steering wheel vibration, or a humming noise that changes with speed, all of which would merit a professional wheel‑alignment and possibly a tyre replacement. Given the vehicle’s age, also inspect time‑sensitive items regardless of mileage. Check the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially on the front set, as ageing rubber can fail even with low tread wear. Verify the 12 V battery’s cranking performance and inspect for any corrosion on terminals, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Look for signs of fluid degradation: inspect the engine oil for a dark, gritty appearance, the coolant for any rust or sludge, and the brake fluid for moisture uptake (a milky hue). Finally, confirm that the service booklet shows regular oil changes, brake fluid flushes (typically every two years) and that any suspension repairs documented after the 2023 coil‑spring failure have been carried out by a reputable garage. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Sportage’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.