2016 KIA RIO 1.4L Diesel · LT16 DMY

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of reactive repairs rather than preventative care. The most recent test in March 2026 at 113,143 miles confirmed that while the car passed, it introduced a new advisory for thin rear brake pads. This follows a persistent issue with the front steering rack which has been flagged for slight free play across three consecutive tests since March 2025, indicating a mechanical wear that has not been adequately rectified. The mileage profile is consistent with a ten-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 11,300 miles per year. There is a clear accumulation of roughly 11,000 miles between the March 2024 and March 2025 tests, and another 12,500 miles leading into the March 2026 inspection. This regular usage suggests standard operation, but the repeated failures in 2024 and 2025 indicate that the owner only addresses mechanical faults when strictly necessary to pass the MOT test. A buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the front steering assembly, as the recorded free play has persisted for over 12,000 miles and could indicate a failing steering rack or worn internal joints. The braking system also requires attention; the transition from worn tyres to a formal advisory on thin pads suggests the components are reaching the end of life. Furthermore, the history of uneven tyre wear in early 2025 suggests potential alignment issues or worn suspension bushes that should be verified to prevent further premature tyre degradation.