2015 KIA Sorento 2.2L Diesel · MM15 CUH

The most recent DVSA examination on 16 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, but it is worth noting that four separate advisories were issued at this test, which represents the most heavily flagged MOT in the recorded history. These items relate to light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber, slight play in the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, and slight deterioration of the inner drive shaft flexible couplings on both the nearside and offside front. When compared with the three preceding tests, which were either completely clean or carried only minor advisories, the trend at the most recent assessment suggests emerging wear in the suspension and drivetrain rather than a uniformly stable maintenance profile. The 2023 test did record wear on both rear axle swivel pins and bushes, indicating that chassis components have been under observation for some time, and the recurrence of suspension-related advisories two years later suggests this is a vehicle entering a phase where proactive replacement of wearing parts is likely to be required within the next service interval. With 110,912 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, the Sorento has covered an average of around 10,083 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical mixed private and family use. There are no significant gaps or sudden jumps in the MOT-recorded mileages that would suggest prolonged standing periods or an inconsistent history, and the steady accumulation indicates regular if modest use. From a mechanical standpoint, this mileage level is well within the working life of the vehicle's major drivetrain components, but the per-year figure is high enough that consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, drive belts, and suspension bushes will have been worked hard throughout the vehicle's life, and any items that have not been replaced in the last 20,000 to 30,000 miles should be regarded as due for attention. Given the advisories recorded, particular attention should be paid to the offside rear shock absorber, as the light oil misting indicates the beginning of seal failure and will progressively worsen; during a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and observe whether the rear of the vehicle settles unevenly when stationary. The offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint should be inspected for excess movement by hand, and any knocking or rattling through the front suspension during cornering or over bumps would suggest accelerated wear. The drive shaft flexible couplings, being original at over 110,000 miles, are likely to be approaching the end of their service life, and any vibration through the steering or drivetrain shunt under load, particularly during tight manoeuvres, should be taken seriously and budgeted for. The earlier advisories on the rear axle swivel pins and bushes from 2023, combined with no recorded repair since, mean these components remain a watch point, and a thorough check of rear suspension geometry and tyre wear patterns is essential, as uneven inner or outer edge wear would indicate bushes that have deteriorated further. Beyond the documented defects, a prospective buyer should also carry out age- and mileage-appropriate physical checks regardless of the MOT outcome. Inspect all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades with calendar age even when tread depth is adequate, and verify that the manufacturing date code on each sidewall is within a reasonable period. Examine the brake discs for signs of corrosion or lipping, particularly on a vehicle that may have seen periods of lighter use, and ensure the calipers are releasing freely without any binding that would cause uneven pad wear. Check the condition and state of charge of the 12 volt battery, which is often overlooked on vehicles of this age, and verify the service history to confirm that timing belt or chain, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid have been changed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, as these items degrade with time as much as with mileage. Finally, a careful inspection of the underbody and wheelarches for any developing corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and subframe seams, would be prudent on an eleven year old SUV that has seen regular use on winter roads.