2016 KIA Picanto 1.0L Petrol · PX66 NPD

Rear‑tyre condition dominates the MOT narrative for this 2016 Kia Picanto; a 2023 failure recorded a dangerous tread‑depth shortfall on the nearside rear tyre and an advisory on cracking to the off‑side rear tyre, while a 2020 advisory flagged a slightly distorted inner rim on the nearside rear wheel. Apart from those rear‑tyre concerns, the vehicle has logged clean passes in every other test, most recently in July 2026, indicating no further defects have been reported since the tyre issues were highlighted. With 57,691 mi recorded over roughly ten years the average annual accumulation sits near 5,800 mi, well below the typical UK usage pattern for a small hatchback. Such low mileage often points to periods of light duty or intermittent storage, which can allow rubber components to age independently of wear. Consequently, while engine and drivetrain wear is likely modest, age‑related degradation of tyres, seals and bushings may be more advanced than the mileage alone suggests. Prospective buyers should give the rear tyre set a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Verify that the tread depth on both rear tyres exceeds the 1.6 mm legal minimum, and feel the sidewalls for any soft spots, cracking, or bulging that could indicate perishing rubber. Spin the wheels to detect wobble that would confirm the previously noted rim distortion; any vibration felt through the steering column at speeds above 30 mph would merit wheel refurbishment or replacement. Because the rear axle was flagged, also check the rear suspension mounting points for excessive play or worn bushes, listening for clunks over bumps. A short test‑drive should focus on the steering response and braking feel. The steering should be centred without pull, and the brakes should apply firmly without judder or pulsation, suggesting the brake discs and pads remain within acceptable limits. Pay attention to any unusual noises from the rear suspension, especially when traversing road imperfections, as these could hint at hidden wear in the rear springs or bushings that have not yet surfaced in MOT testing. Addressing the rear tyre and wheel condition before committing will mitigate the primary safety risk identified in the vehicle’s MOT history.