2009 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · MW09 LHM

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than preventative care. While the most recent MOT test in July 2023 at 122,777 miles passed, it flagged a persistent oil leak and immediate wear on both rear tyres. This follows a significant failure in June 2022 where multiple mechanical components were rejected simultaneously. The overall trend suggests that while the car is kept on the road, components are only addressed once they reach a point of failure. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 17-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,200 miles per year. There is a notable gap of 16,522 miles between July 2020 (96,810 miles) and July 2021 (113,332 miles), after which the accumulation slowed to roughly 9,400 miles per year. Given that the last test was conducted in July 2023, the vehicle is now nearly three years overdue for its annual inspection. This lapse in official testing increases the risk of undiagnosed degradation of rubber-based components and potential safety issues that have gone unnoticed. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The record shows recurring issues with front suspension arm ball joints, dust covers, and anti-roll bar linkages, which indicate systemic wear across the steering geometry. The 2022 failure specifically highlighted binding calipers and thin brake pads, suggesting the braking system may be prone to uneven wear. Furthermore, the persistent oil leak noted since 2021 requires a close examination to determine if it is a minor gasket seep or a more catastrophic seal failure. You should also verify the condition of all tyres, as the 2023 test found the rear pair already at the legal limit.