2013 KIA Sorento 2.2L Diesel · RF13 LGD

The Kia Sorento’s MOT history reflects a vehicle that has largely passed its most recent inspections without major defects, though the July 2024 failure reveals a period of deferred maintenance that was subsequently addressed. The October 2025 and July 2025 tests both passed with no advisories or defects, suggesting the previous owner rectified the critical issues—fractured anti-roll bar linkages, a split driveshaft boot, and worn tyres—promptly. The absence of recurring structural or safety-critical advisories in the last two tests indicates stability, but the July 2024 failure stands out as an outlier where multiple suspension and drivetrain components were compromised. Binding or fractured anti-roll bar linkages, in particular, signal potential long-term alignment or handling concerns if not fully repaired, while the split driveshaft boot could risk premature joint wear if moisture ingress has already occurred. Mileage accumulation has been steady at roughly 8,343 miles per year, aligning with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the July 2023 pass (92,278 miles) and the July 2024 failure (101,400 miles) suggests the car was driven consistently without major neglect, though the rapid progression of faults—tyres, wipers, and suspension—within that 9,000-mile span implies either deferred servicing or a lack of proactive checks. The most recent tests show minimal mileage gain (just 74 miles between July and October 2025), which may indicate the vehicle has been stored or used sparingly since October 2025. This could either reflect a recent purchase by the seller or a prolonged period of disuse, though the clean MOTs suggest no immediate deterioration during this time. For a buyer, the primary focus should be the suspension system, particularly the rear anti-roll bar linkages and driveshaft boot. The July 2024 failure highlights these as high-risk areas—fractured linkages can compromise cornering stability, while a compromised driveshaft boot may have already caused internal joint damage. Inspecting the rear wheel bearings and track rod ends is also prudent, as these components often degrade in tandem with anti-roll bar wear. Tyres, while not a structural concern, were repeatedly flagged at legal limits, so checking tread depth and wear patterns across all four is essential. The windscreen wiper failure, though minor, may indicate electrical or mechanical wear in the wiper motor or linkage that could recur. Finally, verify that any repairs made after July 2024—especially to the driveshaft and suspension—were completed to manufacturer specifications, as substandard fixes could accelerate future failures.