2009 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · MV09 CJU

The latest MOT test for the 2009 Ford Kuga on 2026-09-01 reflects a mixed but ultimately concerning maintenance trajectory, with the vehicle failing in May 2023 due to critical issues that persisted into the subsequent test. The most notable failures were the nearside front upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover failure, which allowed dirt ingress and indicated a compromised component that could lead to premature wear on the suspension system or even suspension failure if left unaddressed. Additionally, the nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boot split or insecure was a major failure, suggesting that lubrication within the CV joint may have been compromised, potentially causing accelerated joint wear, increased noise, or even catastrophic failure if the joint seals degrade further. The recurring advisories on brake disc wear, pitted or scored but not seriously weakened, highlight a pattern of ongoing brake system degradation, which could develop into more severe issues if the discs continue to wear unevenly or if the vehicle accumulates further mileage without servicing. The recorded mileage of 110,139 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,479 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of multiple MOT failures in close succession—particularly the CV joint boot and ball joint issues—suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to either excessive stress, poor maintenance, or a combination of both. The CV joint failure is particularly critical, as it is a drivetrain component that, if neglected, can lead to increased noise and vibration, reduced drivability, and ultimately a loss of power transfer efficiency. The ball joint failure indicates potential suspension misalignment or excessive wear in the anti-roll bar linkage, which could contribute to uneven tyre wear, handling instability, and increased road noise. The gaps between MOT tests, particularly the failure in May 2023 followed by a clean pass in May 2024, raise questions about whether the vehicle was properly serviced between tests or if the failures were simply not caught during routine checks. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the CV joint boot failure and the anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover issue, both of which require immediate attention. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front of the vehicle, particularly clunks or grinding sounds that could indicate misalignment or worn suspension components. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel or uneven tyre wear, which may suggest suspension or alignment problems. Inspect the CV boots visually for signs of cracking or bulging, and verify that there is no lubricant leakage around the joints. The brake system, while currently showing only advisories, should be thoroughly inspected for signs of uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs and pads. If the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, check for standing corrosion on the brake discs, calipers, and suspension components, as this can lead to binding or reduced braking performance. Additionally, verify that the washer fluid reservoir is topped up and that the wiper blades are in good condition, as these were also major failures in previous tests. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, focusing on the suspension components, exhaust system, and undercarriage for signs of rust or damage. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at lower mileages due to prolonged exposure to the elements. Check the 12V battery and starter motor for signs of wear or failure, as older vehicles are more susceptible to electrical issues. Ensure that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, oil, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and are not showing signs of degradation or contamination. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that the service book has been properly maintained, particularly for the CV joint boot replacement and suspension component servicing. Finally, consider a professional pre-purchase inspection to assess the extent of the CV joint and ball joint failures and to identify any other underlying issues that may not have been caught during the MOT tests.