2017 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · MJ67 AAE

The most recent MOT on 20 January 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory that both rear tyres show slight damage or perishing. This follows a failure just three days earlier where the nearside front tyre was deemed dangerous with exposed ply, and the central rear seat‑belt buckle was recorded as a major fault. Earlier in 2025 the car also received advisories on front‑disc condition, thin rear pads and rear‑tyre perishing, while in late 2023 it failed for dangerously low tread on both front tyres. The pattern shows a gradual deterioration of the tyre set and a lingering brake‑wear issue, indicating a maintenance trend that is slipping rather than improving. At 61,177 miles for a 2017 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,800 mi, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. The figure does not suggest any periods of high‑speed or heavy‑load operation, but the presence of multiple tyre‑related defects together with the relatively low mileage hints that the vehicle may have spent considerable time standing idle. Prolonged storage can accelerate rubber perishing, brake‑dust corrosion and battery ageing, all of which are now manifesting in the MOT records. A prospective buyer should give the tyre condition immediate attention. The front tyres have already been flagged as dangerous; both should be measured for tread depth and sidewall integrity, and any signs of cracking, bulging or exposed cords demand replacement without delay. The rear tyres, although only advisory, are described as slightly damaged or perishing – inspect the sidewalls for dry rot, check for uneven wear that could point to mis‑aligned suspension or worn bushes, and verify that the spare tyre is serviceable. The central rear seat‑belt buckle must be replaced or repaired, as a non‑functioning buckle is a safety critical fault. Brake wear is also evident: the front disc is pitted and the rear pads are thin, so a thorough inspection of disc surface for scoring, pad wear indicators and caliper operation is essential; listen for any shudder or pulsation under braking and feel for pedal feel changes. While you are under the bonnet, examine the condition of the suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for any play or leaking, as age‑related wear can compound tyre issues. Beyond the immediate defects, treat the vehicle as a nine‑year‑old that has seen relatively low mileage. Verify the health of the 12 V battery – a load test or voltage check will reveal any loss of capacity that often follows long periods of inactivity. Inspect all fluid levels and consider a full service: brake fluid should be replaced if it is more than two years old, coolant and engine oil may have degraded even without high mileage. Look for corrosion on the chassis, wheel arches and exhaust system, especially around the rear where moisture can collect. Confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and that any previous MOT failures have been rectified with appropriate paperwork. A careful test drive should reveal any steering pull, suspension clunks, or abnormal noises that would indicate hidden wear before committing to purchase.