2019 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · MJ69 HSA

The most recent MOT tests on this 2019 Ford Kuga, conducted just seven months ago on 2025-10-30, reveal a mixed but ultimately stable roadworthiness profile. The vehicle passed the primary test after failing only on headlamp alignment—a minor, easily corrected issue that does not indicate deeper mechanical neglect. No structural, suspension, or drivetrain faults were recorded in the last two tests, suggesting the vehicle has not experienced worsening wear in critical areas. However, the repeated rear tyre failures in 2024 (perishing cracks on both tyres) imply a lack of proactive maintenance, as tyres should be replaced long before such degradation occurs. This suggests the previous owner may have deferred routine checks, particularly for consumable components. The mileage progression of 5,191 miles per year is unusually low for a seven-year-old vehicle, averaging just over 430 miles monthly. This pattern suggests the car has spent extended periods stationary, which can accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components. The gap between the 2022 (21,910 miles) and 2023 (27,306 miles) tests—covering 5,396 miles in under a year—stands out as the only period of higher usage, yet no faults were recorded then. The subsequent slowdown to near-zero mileage accumulation between 2023 and 2024 (just 4,898 miles over 18 months) raises questions about storage conditions, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery drain, fluid breakdown, and corrosion. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear suspension and wheel bearings, given the 2024 tyre failures may have been secondary to underlying issues like worn wheel studs or misaligned wheels. The headlamp alignment fault in 2025 indicates potential steering or suspension drift, warranting a check for worn suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers—particularly on the nearside, where alignment issues were most pronounced. Corrosion should also be scrutinised around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, as rust can compromise structural integrity without immediate visual signs. Finally, the battery and electrical system should be tested, given the low mileage history and the risk of prolonged discharge. Fluid levels—brake, power steering, and coolant—should be verified, as they degrade more rapidly when a vehicle remains stationary for long periods.