2017 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · OV17 CNU

A recurring pattern of suspension bush wear is the defining mechanical concern on this 2017 Ford Kuga. The most recent MOT on 17 July 2026 recorded advisories at all four corners, noting deteriorated front suspension arm pins or bushes on both nearside and offside, alongside trailing arm bushes at the rear noted as near limit on both sides. This is the fourth consecutive test to flag suspension component deterioration, with similar trailing arm advisories appearing at the 2025 test and the front items likely worsening progressively from a clean record in 2023 and 2024. While none of these issues have yet resulted in excessive movement or a failure, the breadth of wear across both axles suggests the rubber components are approaching the end of their service life, and the trend is clearly worsening rather than stabilising. The 2026 test also recorded an advisory for a nail in a rear tyre, which is a routine defect but worth confirming has been addressed. Recorded mileage of 68,185 miles over approximately nine years equates to an annual accumulation of around 7,576 miles, which is broadly typical for a family SUV of this age. There are no notable gaps in the annual testing pattern, with the vehicle presenting for MOT consistently from 2022 through 2026, suggesting steady rather than sporadic use. This kind of mileage profile tends to produce moderate wear on consumables such as brake pads and discs, as well as the suspension components already highlighted. The lack of long stationary periods means corrosion concerns on undersealed areas and brake pipes are likely to be limited compared to a low-use example, though a physical inspection of these areas remains sensible given the age. For a prospective buyer, the suspension advisories warrant particular attention on a test drive. Listen and feel for any knocking or clonking from the front end over uneven surfaces or speed humps, which would indicate the deteriorated front bushes allowing excessive movement. At the rear, clunks or a vague, wandering feel over bumps could suggest the trailing arm bushes are now closer to failure than the test results implied. Pay close attention to steering precision, as worn front bushes can introduce vagueness on turn-in. Visually examine the bushes themselves for cracking, splitting, or visible displacement of the metal pin within the rubber housing. The nearside front oil leak noted in 2025 should be checked by inspecting the engine block and sump area for fresh oil residue and ensuring the level remains within specification. The 2022 advisory for rear tyres worn close to the legal limit on both edges suggests the vehicle may carry some rear axle geometry deviation worth confirming. On a test drive, any pulling to one side under braking or a steering wheel that does not sit centralised after straight-line driving would warrant further investigation. Confirm the rear tyres are of matching brand, size, and tread depth, as uneven wear can recur if alignment remains uncorrected. Finally, given the Kuga's known propensity for water pump and timing chain concerns on the 1.5 and 2.0 EcoBlue engines, listen for any auxiliary drive rattle on cold start and ensure the engine temperature remains stable under load. With the suspension components flagged as the primary wear item, budgeting for a full set of wishbone and trailing arm bushes in the near future would be a prudent consideration for the next owner.