2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Diesel · PH02 AEH

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a shift toward reactive rather than proactive care. While it passed its most recent test in February 2026 at 57,879 miles, it failed four days prior due to multiple tyre defects. The failure of the nearside front and offside front tyres being below legal limits, combined with the nearside rear tyre reaching the limit, suggests that the previous owner neglected basic consumable maintenance until the MOT forced action. The Sportage has covered 57,879 miles over eight years, averaging approximately 7,235 miles per annum. This usage profile is consistent with typical low-to-moderate commuting. Between February 2025 and February 2026, the vehicle clocked 10,935 miles in a single year, which represents a significant increase compared to the 8,344 miles recorded in the preceding year. This spike in usage likely explains the rapid wear observed on the tyres and may have accelerated the degradation of suspension components identified in earlier tests. A buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear suspension geometry. The February 2024 test at 37,600 miles flagged worn arm pin bushes on both the nearside and offside rear. Although these did not result in a failure at that time, bushes are prone to cracking and rubber degradation as they age. The buyer must check for uneven tyre wear or clunking noises during a test drive, as the nearside rear tyre was noted as worn on the edge, potentially indicating an alignment issue or failing suspension components. The presence of undertrays noted in February 2023 suggests an attempt to protect the structural integrity, which is a positive sign for a vehicle of this age. However, the recent tyre failures highlight a need to verify that all four tyres have been replaced with high-quality units rather than budget alternatives. Given the recent increase in mileage, the brakes should also be inspected for thin discs or scoring to ensure the increased usage has not led to premature wear on the braking system.