2016 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · OS04 JEM

A history of recurring suspension component wear and steering linkage failures defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle, though the most recent MOT passed on 13 March 2026 with no defects recorded. The records show a concentrated period of mechanical issues during 2023, where the vehicle failed twice due to a track rod end with excessive play and subsequent advisories regarding split bushes in the front lower suspension arms and rear shock absorber bushes. While the subsequent tests in 2024, 2025, and 2026 have returned clean results, the previous pattern indicates that the suspension and steering geometry have been subject to significant wear and required rectification. The vehicle has covered 107,714 miles over its ten-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 10,771 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical UK driving habits for a mid-sized SUV of this age. Mechanically, this level of mileage suggests that while the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme high-speed motorway transit or heavy commercial use, the cumulative wear on consumables such as suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and steering components is expected to be well-advanced, as evidenced by the specific failures noted in the 2023 testing period. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the integrity of the suspension and steering systems during a test drive. Given the history of worn track rod ends and splitting suspension arm bushes, it is essential to listen for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when navigating uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any sensation of steering vagueness, wandering, or a pull to one side could indicate that previous repairs to the steering rack or linkages have not fully addressed the underlying wear or that new components are beginning to fail. Furthermore, the repeated advisories concerning worn shock absorber bushes and trailing arm bushes warrant a physical inspection of the rear suspension area. On the road, check for excessive body roll during cornering or an unsettled, bouncy sensation when driving over bumps, which could signal degraded damping or worn bushings. The 2021 advisory regarding the tyre pressure monitoring system lamp should also be verified to ensure the system is currently operational and not displaying a persistent fault, as this can sometimes mask actual pressure issues.