2016 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · LS16 AVK

The most recent MOT on 21 May 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the six‑year MOT record the majority of tests have been passes, with the only failure occurring in May 2025 due to an excessively worn rear shock‑absorber bush. Since then the car has cleared subsequent tests, though a series of advisories – notably tyre perishing, thin brake pads and a deteriorated ball‑joint dust cover – have been recurring, suggesting a maintenance pattern that is broadly stable but requires attention to wear items that are beginning to approach their service limits. At ten years old the Sportage has logged 76,855 miles, an average of roughly 7,700 miles per annum. This usage is typical for a family SUV of its age and does not point to any periods of excessive short‑term mileage that would accelerate component fatigue. The relatively modest annual distance means that major drivetrain wear should be moderate, but the cumulative mileage is sufficient for wear on suspension bushings, brake linings and tyre tread, especially where the vehicle may have spent time stationary between trips. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the rear suspension and tyre condition. The rear shock‑absorber bush that failed in 2025 is likely approaching the end of its service life; listen for a pronounced clunk or thump when the car traverses bumps or when the rear wheels are forced over uneven surfaces. Inspect both rear tyres for cracking, sidewall perishing and tread depth – the MOT advisories indicate the tyres are already showing early signs of age‑related degradation and may need replacement soon. Front tyres were flagged in 2024 as being close to the legal limit on the edges, so verify that the tread is uniform across the width and that there is no cupping or feathering, which would suggest mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. The brake system shows a pattern of thin pads – rear pads were noted as thin in 2020 and again in 2024 and 2025, while front pads were thin in 2020 – and the front discs were described as pitted but not seriously weakened. Expect a possible brake pedal pulsation or increased stopping distances if the pads are near the minimum thickness, and consider budgeting for a full pad set replacement and a disc resurfacing or swap if scoring is evident. The lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover on the nearside front, recorded as severely deteriorated in 2024, should be inspected for corrosion or looseness, as failure could lead to joint wear and steering imprecision. Beyond the wear items highlighted by the MOT, a comprehensive age‑related check is advisable. Verify the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of electrolyte leakage or terminal corrosion, as a ten‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and confirm that they have been changed at the recommended intervals; fluids can degrade over time even with low mileage, leading to reduced lubrication and cooling efficiency. Inspect the under‑tray and engine covers for rust, damage or loose fittings, especially given the 2022 advisory that they were fitted, to ensure that corrosion has not compromised structural integrity or heat shielding. Finally, request the full service book to confirm that timing‑chain related inspections (or timing‑belt changes if applicable to the specific engine variant) have been performed according to Kia’s schedule, and that any suspension or brake component replacements have been logged. A thorough visual inspection combined with a test drive that checks for steady steering, smooth braking and the absence of rattles or clunks will give a clear indication of the vehicle’s current roadworthiness and the immediacy of any forthcoming maintenance.