2016 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · PL65 EUU

The latest MOT test resulted in a pass in December 2025, but the overall maintenance trend for this vehicle is concerning. The history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care, characterized by several failures on dangerous defects. Specifically, the vehicle has suffered from severe brake neglect and structural tyre failures. The recurrence of advisories regarding suspension play and tyre wear suggests that basic maintenance has been deferred until the point of legal failure, indicating a lack of consistent preventative servicing. The recorded mileage of 51,368 miles over approximately ten years is notably low, averaging roughly 5,137 miles per year. While this results in less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, such low usage often leads to different types of deterioration. The MOT history confirms this, showing multiple instances of tyres perishing and cracking due to age rather than wear. Low-mileage vehicles are frequently subject to issues stemming from prolonged periods of standing, which can affect rubber seals, battery health, and the integrity of braking components. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the chassis and steering components. The repeated advisories for track rod end play and suspension arm ball joint wear indicate that the front end is deteriorating. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Furthermore, the history of uneven edge wear on the front tyres suggests a potential wheel alignment issue. All tyre sidewalls must be meticulously inspected for the cracking and perishing noted in previous years, as these structural weaknesses can lead to sudden failure. The braking system requires rigorous verification given the previous dangerous failure for excessively worn pads and discs. Ensure there is no shuddering during braking and that the parking brake holds the vehicle securely on an incline, following the recent failure for incorrect lever adjustment. The current advisory for a TPMS light indicates an electronic fault or a pressure leak that needs resolution. Finally, because of the low annual mileage, the buyer must verify the service book for calendar-based fluid changes and check for any binding calipers or corrosion on the brake discs that typically occurs when a vehicle is left stationary for extended periods.