2022 KIA Sportage GT-Line ISG Mhev S-A 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · MR70 STE

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 2026-05-04 resulted in a pass, but the immediate prior test on 2026-04-27 was a failure, indicating that the vehicle required corrective work before being deemed roadworthy. The failure centred on two major defects: a nearside front headlamp aim that was too high, suggesting possible misalignment or a faulty levelling system, and an engine management indicator lamp being inoperative or indicating a malfunction, which points to an active or stored powertrain diagnostic trouble code. Both items would typically require remedial attention before a re-test, and the subsequent pass suggests they have been addressed, although no detail is provided regarding the nature of the repairs carried out. The maintenance trend is therefore best described as stable following a recent corrective intervention, with the persistent brake disc advisories across both 2026 tests warranting ongoing monitoring as the wear progresses. The recorded mileage of 54,669 miles over approximately four years equates to an annual usage of around 13,667 miles, which is on the higher side for a vehicle of this age and points to sustained regular driving, likely with a mixture of urban and motorway mileage. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage history that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, which reduces the likelihood of standing-related deterioration such as brake disc corrosion from inactivity, dry-rotted suspension bushes, or a flat 12V battery. However, the higher annual mileage does increase wear rates on consumables including brake pads and discs, tyres, clutch engagement components where applicable, and general engine and drivetrain wear. The absence of any recorded advisory mileage figures in the MOT history makes precise usage progression impossible to chart, but the consistency of testing suggests continuous use rather than intermittent operation. The front and rear brake disc wear advisories, recorded at both the failed and passed tests in 2026, are a recurring concern that should be carefully investigated before purchase. These advisories indicate measurable wear on both axles, and although the discs were not considered failed items, the wear progression will continue and replacement is likely to be required within the next service interval. On a test drive, attention should be paid to any brake shudder through the steering wheel or pedal under firm application, suggesting disc lateral runout or uneven wear, as well as any grinding or squealing noises that might indicate pads running low against worn discs. The nearside front headlamp aim defect raises a question regarding the integrity of the headlamp levelling mechanism, whether manual or automatic, and this should be verified by checking that both headlamps project an even, level beam pattern against a flat surface such as a garage door, with no obvious asymmetry between sides. Additionally, given the engine management lamp issue, it would be prudent to request evidence of any diagnostic work carried out and to confirm that no warning lamps remain illuminated on the dashboard at ignition, and that the vehicle has been driven sufficiently post-repair to allow any monitory readiness cycles to complete without the fault re-triggering. Finally, despite the absence of structural or corrosion advisories, a physical inspection of tyre sidewalls for age-related perishing cracking, brake caliper slide pins for any signs of binding or seizing, and fluid service history including brake fluid and coolant should be undertaken to verify that calendar-based maintenance has been observed alongside the mileage-based servicing.