2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · MA68 AHN

A pattern of accelerated tyre wear and recurring brake‑pad thinning dominates the MOT record, with two dangerous failures recorded – front tyres below the 1.6 mm legal limit in 2022 and an off‑side front brake pad under 1.5 mm in 2024 – before the most recent test in July 2025, which was passed but flagged both front tyres as approaching the legal limit. The trend shows that while the vehicle has cleared the latest inspection, the underlying wear on the wheel‑assembly and braking system remains a focal point for any prospective buyer. At 51,050 mi spread over eight years the average annual mileage sits around 6,400 mi, a figure that aligns with typical usage for a family SUV of this age. The MOT history shows regular annual testing with no significant gaps, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This steady usage means consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension components will have been subjected to normal wear cycles, but the recorded wear rates suggest they may be reaching the end of their service lives sooner than the mileage alone would imply. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the front tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; look for any signs of uneven wear, cracking or bulging that could indicate underlying alignment or suspension issues. Verify that the front brake pads have been replaced since the 2024 dangerous failure – a fresh pad should present a uniform thickness above 3 mm and feel solid under finger pressure. During a road test, listen for any high‑pitched squeal or grinding from the brakes, and feel for pedal pulsation or a soft, spongy pedal that could betray residual pad wear or glazing. Check the rear brake pads for the thin‑pad advisories noted in 2024; a judder or reduced braking efficiency on rear‑wheel application would be a warning sign. Finally, examine the rear tyres for the cracking and perishing noted in the 2023 advisories; any visible tread separation or sidewall deterioration should be treated as a replacement trigger. Confirm that the off‑side windscreen wiper, flagged as ineffective in 2022, now clears the glass adequately – a non‑functional wiper can compromise visibility in wet conditions. While the MOT data does not record any suspension or structural defects, a thorough visual check of suspension bushes, control arms and subframe for rust or play is prudent, especially given the high tyre wear which can stress these components over time.