2021 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · MM21 FFP

The most recent MOT test conducted in April 2026 resulted in a pass, although it follows a failure concerning the effectiveness of the nearside windscreen wiper and a TPMS warning light. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the maintenance trend indicates a progression of wear in the suspension system. The presence of advisories for both nearside and offside rear suspension arm pins or bushes suggests that the rubber components are beginning to perish or degrade. This represents a shift from the previous years where issues were primarily related to consumables like brakes and tyres, moving now towards more significant wear in the chassis components. The vehicle has covered 39,191 miles over approximately five years, which averages to roughly 7,838 miles per year. This is a moderate to low mileage profile for a 2021 model, suggesting the vehicle has likely been used for domestic or commuting purposes rather than heavy long-distance or commercial use. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and transmission, it can sometimes result in more frequent component issues such as brake corrosion or suspension bushing degradation if the vehicle has spent significant time stationary or has been driven primarily on short, urban trips. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension during a test drive. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or dull thudding sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn suspension arm bushes. Worn bushes can also lead to a feeling of instability or lateral movement in the rear of the vehicle during cornering. Furthermore, given the 2025 advisories regarding thin brake pads and worn front discs, you must verify that the braking system is performing correctly. Ensure the brake pedal is firm, the car does not pull to one side under braking, and there is no vibration or shudder through the steering wheel or pedal, which would indicate uneven disc wear or binding calipers. Finally, inspect the tyres thoroughly for any sidewall cuts or irregular wear patterns, as the previous MOT history noted cuts to the rear tyres and worn suspension components can cause rapid, uneven tread wear. Check the windscreen for any chips or cracks that could lead to a future failure, and confirm that the wipers now clear the glass effectively. Because the annual mileage is relatively low, it is essential to check the service book to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as brake fluid replacement and oil changes, has been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule rather than solely based on mileage intervals.