2012 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · RO12 JCZ

Over four recorded MOT tests between 2023 and 2026, this 2012 Ford Kuga presents a generally clean roadworthiness profile, with the most recent examination on 1 April 2026 passing without any recorded defects or advisories. That result follows an equally clean pass in April 2025, suggesting that any issues identified in earlier tests were addressed and have not reappeared at subsequent examinations. The only failure recorded in the available history occurred on 30 March 2024, when an offside rear stop lamp was found not working — a straightforward electrical defect that was subsequently rectified, as the same day's test was recorded as a pass with an advisory. The broader pattern indicates a stable mechanical state at the most recent test rather than a deteriorating trend. Recorded mileage of 100,313 miles across roughly fourteen years of service equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 7,165 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular mixed-use driving rather than long periods of inactivity or unusually high motorway mileage. The testing pattern shows annual examinations from 2023 onwards with no significant gaps in MOT coverage, suggesting the vehicle has remained in continuous use throughout this period. At this mileage level on a fourteen-year-old Kuga, consumable wear items such as suspension bushes, brake discs and pads, and drivebelt components are likely to have been replaced at least once, while major mechanical units such as the engine and gearbox will have accumulated substantial working hours. The mileage progression between tests appears steady and proportionate to the intervals, with no evidence of clock anomalies or unusual jumps. The single oil leak advisory recorded at the 2024 test was classified as not excessive, meaning seepage was visible without representing an immediate failure item. On a physical inspection, a buyer should examine the underside of the engine and gearbox for fresh oil residue, paying particular attention to the sump gasket, cam cover gasket, and any oil cooler seals, which are known areas on the Kuga. During a test drive, monitor the oil level over the first few miles after a cold start and watch for any drips forming beneath the vehicle when stationary. Persistent oil misting on the undertray or a strong burning oil smell from the engine bay after a longer run would suggest the leak has worsened since the advisory was issued. The 2023 advisory noting an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge is consistent with a front-wheel-drive SUV of this mileage and suggests potential alignment or suspension geometry wear. On inspection, the buyer should check for uneven shoulder wear on the front tyres, which can indicate worn wishbone bushes, a tired drop link, or compromised anti-roll bar mountings — all known wear points on the Kuga's front suspension. During the test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or wandering from the steering, particularly under braking. The braking system should also be evaluated, as a vehicle of this age and mileage commonly requires disc replacement due to lipping or corrosion, and any judder through the pedal or steering wheel under heavy braking would warrant closer attention to the discs and calliper operation.