2016 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · MV16 GRZ

The most recent MOT test for the 2016 Ford Kuga was conducted on 2026-04-02 and resulted in a clean pass, marking the first successful assessment in the vehicle’s history. However, the preceding three MOTs all recorded multiple major failures, predominantly related to lighting systems, windscreen functionality, and tyre pressure monitoring, indicating a pattern of recurring issues rather than a stable maintenance trend. While the latest test passed, the historical failures suggest potential underlying electrical or wiring problems affecting the vehicle’s lighting circuits, windscreen wipers, and TPMS. The presence of repeated advisories—particularly those related to position lamps, windscreen wipers, and TPMS—demands careful attention to prevent further compliance failures or potential safety hazards, such as reduced visibility or impaired braking awareness. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 85,825 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,582 miles per year, which is consistent with typical long-term ownership patterns for a ten-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but it does not rule out periods of prolonged standing or lower usage, which can accelerate wear in certain systems. For example, standing for extended periods may lead to brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid stagnation in the suspension and cooling systems, while infrequent use could contribute to battery drain or electrical system inefficiencies. The absence of significant mileage spikes suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to aggressive driving conditions, but this also means wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may be more gradual than in higher-mileage examples. Given the recurring MOT failures—particularly those linked to electrical components and windscreen systems—the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s wiring harnesses, fuses, and connector integrity, especially around the lighting and TPMS modules. During a test drive, listen for any intermittent electrical whining or clicking sounds, which may indicate faulty relays or wiring issues, and check that all lamps—including position, indicator, and brake lights—function consistently without flickering or dimming. The windscreen wipers should be tested for smooth operation and effective clearing, with particular attention to the offside front wiper, as previous MOT failures highlighted inefficiency. Additionally, verify that the TPMS system is operational and that tyre pressures are monitored accurately, as a malfunctioning TPMS can lead to unsafe underinflation risks. Beyond the recurring MOT issues, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection for age-related wear and potential standing-related corrosion. Check the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, and ensure there are no signs of uneven wear patterns that may indicate suspension or alignment problems. Inspect the brake system for corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, and verify that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, as standing fluid can degrade brake performance over time. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, especially given the electrical failures noted in the MOT history, and the cooling and transmission fluids should be checked for colour and consistency, with a recommendation for a full service if they appear degraded or old. Finally, the vehicle’s service book should be reviewed to confirm that scheduled maintenance—such as oil changes, suspension inspections, and fluid top-ups—has been conducted in line with Ford’s recommended intervals, as the mileage and age suggest these services may be due or overdue.