2018 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · LS18 GTZ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a recent shift toward reactive rather than proactive care. While it passed its latest test in February 2026 at 61,499 miles, this followed a failure just three days prior where multiple safety-critical defects were identified. The transition from a clean record in 2024 to multiple failures in 2026 suggests the owner is only addressing mechanical issues when strictly necessary to pass the MOT test. The mileage pattern is consistent with an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,700 miles per year. Data shows a steady progression from 38,151 miles in March 2023 to 61,499 miles in February 2026. However, the rapid accumulation of over 13,000 miles between the February 2024 and 2026 tests indicates a period of higher usage compared to the previous years. This increase in mileage likely correlates with the accelerated wear observed on braking and suspension components noted in the most recent inspection reports. A buyer must inspect the front suspension components specifically, as the offside front track rod end dust cover was flagged as excessively deteriorated in February 2026. This type of wear often leads to premature joint failure if not monitored. The braking system shows a recurring pattern of neglect, with rear pads noted as thin in 2025 and failing for being under the 1.5mm limit in early 2026. This history suggests the owner waits for components to reach the point of total failure rather than following scheduled intervals. The front tyres were found to be worn close to the legal limit and unevenly on the edges during the latest pass. This specific wear pattern often indicates a wheel alignment issue which should be verified to prevent further tyre scrubbing. While the headlamp aim was corrected following the February failure, the buyer should ensure these electrical adjustments remain stable. There are no records of structural corrosion or rust in the provided history, but the mechanical state warrants a thorough under-vehicle check of the bushes and brake hardware.