2014 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · PJ14 VGV

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 2025-06-20 at 80,754 miles, but the maintenance trend is worsening rather than stable. While it continues to pass testing, the 2025 test revealed multiple new advisories indicating deferred mechanical attention. The tester flagged play in both nearside and offside front steering rack inner joints, a wear point that directly affects steering precision and structural integrity. Both front and rear brake discs are worn, though not excessively, and an oil leak was recorded. A damaged nearside front door also appeared on the latest record, suggesting cosmetic or structural neglect that warrants close physical inspection. Covering 80,754 miles over roughly 12 years equates to approximately 6,730 miles annually, a notably low usage figure. The mileage progression shows a distinct gap between 2022 and 2023, with the vehicle covering roughly 12,900 miles in the twelve months prior to the July 2023 tests, following a period of lighter use. However, the most recent year saw a sharp drop in usage, accumulating only 7,279 miles between July 2024 and June 2025. Prolonged standing or very short trips could explain the exhaust emissions failure in July 2023, likely caused by a DPF or catalytic converter struggling to regenerate during low-speed, short-journey driving. A buyer must physically verify the condition of the steering rack inner joints, as play here indicates worn track rod ends or rack bushings that will require replacement to maintain precise steering geometry. The braking system needs thorough evaluation; worn brake discs and the history of brake pads wearing thin in 2023 suggest the owner deferred routine servicing. Uneven tyre wear on the rear and nearside front edges points to misaligned tracking or worn suspension bushes, consumable issues that the previous owner ignored. Investigate the oil leak and the nearside front door damage closely. The leak could stem from a failing camshaft seal or oil filter housing, common on this engine, while the door damage might hint at prior accident impact or structural corrosion around the hinges.