2014 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · ML14 HXM

The vehicle presents a mixed maintenance profile with a recent trend towards worsening mechanical attention. While the most recent test on 13 April 2026 at 85,235 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle failed the initial inspection due to thin rear brake pads and a binding offside rear service brake. This indicates that consumable components are reaching the end of their service life and that the braking system requires immediate attention to prevent further wear or damage to the calipers. The mileage accumulation appears consistent with a typical 12-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 7,100 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 26,894 miles in May 2017 to the current 85,235 miles. A notable gap in testing occurred between April 2023 and April 2024, though the vehicle passed during this period. The data suggests a vehicle used for regular, moderate commuting rather than long-distance motorway driving or short, infrequent trips. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The history shows recurring issues with brake pad thickness and binding components, specifically in the April 2019 failure and the April 2026 failure. The tester noted a binding offside rear brake in the most recent test, which often stems from seized caliper pistons or sticking slide pins. Checking the condition of the brake discs for uneven wear or scoring caused by this binding is essential. Suspension and steering components also require scrutiny. The April 2023 test flagged damaged dust covers on both track rod end ball joints, suggesting that while these were addressed, the steering geometry and rubber components should be checked for further deterioration. The 2019 failure highlighted significant neglect regarding tyres and parking brake efficiency, so a physical check of the current tyre tread depth and the responsiveness of the handbrake is necessary to ensure the vehicle meets current safety standards.