2018 Ford Kuga 1.5L Diesel · NJ68 KXF

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive rather than proactive upkeep. While it passed its most recent test in May 2025 at 71,052 miles, this followed a failure just nine days prior due to an inoperative Malfunction Indicator Lamp. The presence of multiple mechanical advisories in the 2025 pass, including thin brake pads and split suspension bushes, suggests that the owner only addresses faults when they are forced by an MOT failure rather than performing routine preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is consistent with typical UK use for this age, averaging approximately 8,900 miles per year. There is a notable period of inactivity between July 2022 and May 2023, where the vehicle covered only 305 miles in nearly ten months. However, usage increased significantly between May 2023 and May 2025, with 38,258 miles clocked in those two years. This surge in mileage likely correlates with the accelerated wear observed on the braking system and suspension components noted in the 2025 record. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear suspension, specifically the dog bone arms and trailing arm bushes, as the tester flagged these as split in 2025. Although they did not cause excessive movement then, rubber degradation worsens over time. The braking system also shows a recurring pattern of thin pads and pitted discs dating back 2021, 2022, and 2025, indicating a history of neglected brake service. Particular attention should be paid to the engine management system to ensure the MIL remains functional as the 2025 failure confirms it was previously tampered with or faulty.