2013 KIA Picanto 1.2L Petrol · NJ63 PTO

Recurring issues with braking system integrity and suspension component wear define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, which shows a history of significant failures related to brake pipe corrosion and parking brake efficiency. While the most recent test on 13 December 2025 resulted in a pass, it noted a minor exhaust gas leak from the rear exhaust box, following a period of instability where the vehicle failed in December 2024 due to major defects in the parking brake and nearside front suspension arm ball joint. The record shows a pattern of addressing critical safety components, such as the heavily corroded brake pipes flagged in 2021 and 2022, though the emergence of new exhaust and braking advisories suggests ongoing attention to the vehicle's underside is required. The recorded mileage of 77,896 miles over approximately 13 years indicates a relatively low annual usage rate of roughly 5,992 miles. This pattern of lower-than-average mileage can often correlate with the specific types of degradation seen in the MOT history, such as the perishing of tyres and the corrosion of brake pipes and hoses. When vehicles are driven less frequently, components like brake discs are more prone to surface pitting and corrosion due to less regular cleaning through friction, a condition explicitly noted as an advisory in the December 2024 test. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the condition of the braking system and the exhaust. The recent advisory regarding a minor exhaust leak from the exhaust box may lead to increased cabin noise or a noticeable smell of fumes; listen for any changes in exhaust note or vibration while idling. Given the history of excessive corrosion on both front and rear brake pipes, as well as corroded brake hose ferrules, a thorough inspection of the hydraulic lines is essential. During a test drive, check for any sponginess in the brake pedal, uneven braking force, or a pulling sensation when applying the brakes, which could indicate issues with the previously flagged binding or inefficient calipers. The suspension and drivetrain history also warrants a focused physical inspection. Previous failures and advisories regarding nearside front suspension arm ball joints, lower arm bushes, and anti-roll bar linkage dust covers suggest that the steering and ride quality may be affected by worn rubber components. On the test drive, listen for knocks, clunks, or creaks when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Additionally, because the nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot was recorded as severely deteriorated in multiple previous tests, check for any signs of grease spray around the drive shafts or any rhythmic clicking sounds when turning the steering to full lock.