2022 KIA Niro 1.6L Hybrid electric · OV22 KKX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2022 Kia Niro, conducted on 29 May 2026, resulted in a Pass, and the overall maintenance trend appears stable and consistent. The vehicle achieved a clean pass at its prior test on 16 May 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, and the 2026 test similarly produced no failure items, which suggests the owner has maintained the vehicle to a satisfactory roadworthy standard throughout its life. The only minor issue recorded was a small crack in the offside front upper windscreen area that does not currently impede the driver's view, and this remains a legal pass. Three advisories were issued on tyres, which while not grounds for failure, do warrant close attention from a prospective buyer as they may indicate ageing rubber rather than simply wear from use. The recorded mileage of 39,067 miles over a four-year period equates to approximately 9,767 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a privately used family crossover of this age and is neither unusually low nor excessively high. This level of usage generally means that the major mechanical components, including the hybrid drivetrain, suspension, and braking system, should have been exercised regularly enough to remain in good operational condition. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage or indications of long periods of standing unused, which is favourable because prolonged inactivity can accelerate corrosion on brake discs, lead to sticking calipers, and degrade tyres through sidewall perishing. The relatively consistent annual running should have kept consumables cycling through their expected service life in a normal manner. The advisory items raised in the latest test focus primarily on tyre condition rather than mechanical wear, and these merit particular scrutiny during a physical inspection. The offside rear tyre was flagged for cracking or perishing on its edges, and the nearside rear tyre shows damage to the outer sidewall, both of which are common on a vehicle of this age and can be accelerated by age-related rubber degradation as well as minor kerbing impacts. Perished or sidewall-damaged tyres pose a safety risk even if tread depth remains adequate, and replacement of all four tyres is often advisable to ensure consistent grip and braking performance. Additionally, the offside front tyre was noted as wearing slightly on its inner edge, which may point to a wheel alignment issue, worn suspension components, or incorrect camber settings, and a prospective buyer should have the geometry checked and inspect the front suspension bushes, wishbones, and strut condition for any play or deterioration. Beyond the recorded advisories, a buyer should also consider the age-related maintenance items that would not necessarily appear on an MOT. Given that the vehicle is now four years old, the 12-volt auxiliary battery health should be verified, as these typically begin to deteriorate beyond the four-year mark, and a weak battery can cause erratic electronic behaviour in modern hybrid vehicles. Brake fluid and coolant should be assessed against the manufacturer's service schedule, as both degrade over time through moisture absorption and chemical breakdown regardless of mileage. It would also be prudent to confirm a full service history with documented stamp evidence, inspect the underside for any early signs of corrosion particularly around suspension mounting points and exhaust hangers, and verify that the hybrid system has received any necessary software updates. On a test drive, listen for any suspension knocks over uneven surfaces, observe the brakes for pulling or vibration under firm application, and monitor the dashboard for any hybrid system warning indicators.