2017 KIA Stonic 1.0L Petrol · LU04 MAC

The most recent MOT test on 2025-09-26 resulted in a passing outcome, though the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and a single major failure. The 2025 test alone shows an oil leak from the engine, which was noted as not excessive but warrants attention as a potential precursor to more serious internal wear. The subsequent MOT on the same date failed due to a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber, indicating a critical failure in that component. This failure suggests that the shock absorber may have degraded significantly, leading to compromised suspension performance and potential instability at higher speeds or on uneven roads. The earlier passing MOTs, particularly those from 2022 and 2021, show no defects, which contrasts with the more recent issues, implying either a deterioration trend or a period of increased stress on the vehicle’s suspension system. The advisories regarding tyre wear close to legal limits—particularly on the front tyres—also suggest that the vehicle has been driven with less-than-optimal tyre alignment or excessive cornering forces, which could exacerbate future tyre and suspension wear. The recorded mileage of 78,521 miles for a 2017 Kia Stonic represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,725 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. This figure does not indicate excessive wear beyond what is expected from normal usage, but it also does not suggest minimal or infrequent driving either. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which could contribute to the observed wear patterns. However, the presence of a major shock absorber failure at 78,521 miles is particularly concerning, as such components are designed to last significantly longer under normal conditions. This failure may have been accelerated by either aggressive driving, poor maintenance, or underlying structural issues that compromised the suspension system’s integrity over time. Buyers should be aware that the suspension’s condition may continue to degrade, potentially leading to further failures or reduced handling stability. Given the recurring advisories and the critical failure of the offside rear shock absorber, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the rear axle area, particularly when negotiating bumps or sharp turns, as these could indicate loose or failing suspension components. Inspect the rear shock absorbers for any signs of oil leakage around the mounting points or the top of the cylinders, and check for excessive play or binding when the vehicle is lifted by the rear wheels. Additionally, examine the condition of the rear tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues. The oil leak advisories from the engine should prompt a check of the oil level and condition, as well as the inspection of the oil filter and related hoses for signs of wear or damage. If the oil leak persists or worsens, the engine’s internal components may require further investigation, potentially leading to increased costs for repairs. For the buyer, the next step is to prioritise addressing the suspension failure and the tyre wear issues. The offside rear shock absorber failure is a major defect that must be repaired to ensure the vehicle’s roadworthiness and safety. The advisories regarding tyre wear should be rectified promptly, either by rotating the tyres or realigning the wheels to prevent further uneven wear. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also consider a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s other critical systems. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is prudent to check the condition of the brake discs and pads, particularly on the offside rear, where potential corrosion or binding calipers could lead to reduced braking performance. The tyre sidewall should be inspected for signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to the elements. Additionally, the 12-volt battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure if left unused for extended periods. Finally, the fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—should be checked for any signs of degradation or contamination, as these fluids can break down over time even without significant mileage. A service history review, if available, would also provide valuable insight into the vehicle’s maintenance schedule and any past issues that may have been overlooked.