2022 Ford Kuga ST-Line Edition Ecoblue 1.5L Diesel · MA22 CWC

The 2022 Ford Kuga ST-Line Edition EcoBlue’s most recent MOT test on 2025-12-02 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround after a failure observed just eight months prior. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of stability, with no further defects recorded since the 2025-04-03 failure, which included a major issue with the offside front windscreen wiper and advisories on tyre wear nearing legal limits, alongside a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber. While the windscreen wiper failure was rectified, the tyre advisories and shock absorber leak remain unresolved issues that must be addressed promptly to prevent further degradation. The absence of recurring failures suggests that while some components have been neglected, the vehicle’s fundamental roadworthiness has not deteriorated catastrophically, though urgent attention is required to resolve the outstanding defects. The recorded mileage of 24,952 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,238 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This figure does not indicate excessive wear from high-mileage accumulation, but it also does not suggest minimal usage either. The gap between the 2025-04-03 failure and the 2025-12-02 MOT test—approximately eight months—could imply periods of reduced or stationary use, which may have exacerbated existing issues such as tyre wear and shock absorber degradation. However, the absence of higher mileage figures or more frequent failures suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to particularly harsh conditions. For a suspension system and tyres, this profile is manageable, but the fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber demands immediate investigation to prevent further damage to the damper mechanism, which could lead to uncontrolled body movement, uneven tyre wear, or even suspension failure. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the outstanding defects and implement a proactive maintenance schedule. The advisories on tyre wear—particularly the nearside and offside front tyres showing edge wear and perishing—indicate that the vehicle has been driven with insufficient attention to tyre rotation or alignment. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, such as cupping or directional wear, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, especially when navigating bumps or corners, as a leaking shock absorber may produce a soft, thudding or clunking sound from the offside rear quarter panel. Additionally, check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the offside rear wheel arch, where the shock absorber is located. The windscreen wiper failure should be repaired to ensure effective visibility, as a poorly functioning wiper can compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness and safety. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should verify the broader mechanical and operational condition of the vehicle. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially in adverse weather conditions. Check the 12-volt battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to corrosion on terminals or a weakened battery. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly on the near-side, where standing for extended periods can accelerate rust formation. The engine oil and differential fluid should be checked for signs of degradation, as fluid changes should have been conducted at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Review the service history for any missing or overdue maintenance, such as timing belt replacement, which is critical for the 2022 model year, and ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are at the correct levels and condition. Finally, a professional inspection by a qualified mechanic should be arranged to assess the condition of the shock absorbers, suspension bushes, and exhaust system, as these components may have been affected by the fluid leak and prolonged use.