2014 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · OF61 TAM

The most recent MOT on 25 February 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory that the nearside front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and is worn on the edge. The preceding 24‑hour MOT on 24 February recorded the same tyre advisory together with advisories on front brake discs and pads showing wear, and a similar advisory on the off‑side front brake disc and pads. Earlier in the series, the 2025 test showed a failure for a deteriorated lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover, while the 2024 and 2025 passes were clean. Overall the trend is mildly deteriorating: tyre wear and front brake wear have become recurring items, and the suspension dust‑cover issue, although not repeated, indicates that some components are approaching the end of their service life. At 112,623 miles the vehicle averages just under 9,400 miles per year over its twelve‑year life, which is typical for a family SUV. The mileage does not suggest excessive short‑trip abuse, but the relatively steady annual accumulation means that wear items such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine oil have been subjected to a normal load. There are no large gaps in recorded mileage that would hint at prolonged periods of storage, so the wear patterns should be consistent with regular road use rather than age‑related perishing alone. Prospective buyers should give the front tyre a close visual and tactile inspection; look for tread depth below 1.6 mm, especially on the outer edge, and feel for any cupping or sidewall cracking that could indicate uneven wear from mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. The front brake discs should be examined for scoring, pitting or excessive rust, and the pads measured for remaining thickness – thin pads can lead to reduced braking efficiency and increased disc wear. On a test drive, listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a pulsating pedal, which would confirm that the pads are near the wear limit. The lower suspension arm dust cover on the off‑side front should be checked for gaps or torn rubber; if dirt can enter the ball joint it can accelerate bearing wear and cause clunking noises when cornering or over bumps. Replacement of the dust cover and a thorough greasing of the ball joint are advisable before the next service. Given the vehicle’s age, even with normal mileage, a buyer should also verify the condition of the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, as rubber can degrade after six years regardless of tread depth. The 12 V battery should be load‑tested, especially if the car has spent periods idle, to avoid unexpected failure. Check that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are topped up and that the fluids have been changed within the manufacturer’s intervals, as time can cause fluid breakdown and corrosion. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any previous brake or suspension work is documented, providing a clearer picture of the vehicle’s overall mechanical health.