2014 KIA Soul 1.6L Diesel · RO14 LWV

The 2014 Kia Soul maintains a generally stable mechanical condition, though the most recent MOT in January 2026 at 52,863 miles introduces a worsening trend regarding the braking system. The tester flagged rear brake pads wearing thin, an offside rear service brake binding, and an offside parking brake efficiency that only just met the legal threshold. This indicates the braking system requires adjustment or repair. Prior to this, the vehicle passed three consecutive tests cleanly, suggesting the recent brake defects have developed over the last five months or were simply not severe enough to fail the vehicle previously. The shift from a flawless record to multiple braking advisories warrants immediate attention. Covering roughly 4,405 miles per year, the 52,863-mile total reflects unusually light use for a twelve-year-old vehicle. The MOT records show a steady, low-mileage accumulation, incrementing by approximately 1,800 to 1,830 miles annually between February 2022 and February 2025. Such low mileage often implies extended periods of standing, which can lead to perishable component degradation, such as the tyre cracking noted in June 2022. The current mileage aligns perfectly with the January 2026 test, confirming consistent, minimal use rather than any recent spike in driving. A buyer must inspect the braking components thoroughly before purchase. The binding offside rear service brake points toward a sticking caliper or collapsed brake hose, while the marginal parking brake efficiency suggests the handbrake cables need adjustment or the rear discs are scoring. Check the rear disc thickness and condition, as binding accelerates uneven wear. The June 2022 advisory regarding perished rear tyres highlights how quickly rubber deteriorates on a vehicle that sits idle for long durations. Examine all tyre sidewalls for fresh cracking, and assess the suspension bushes and coil springs for dry rot or corrosion, as infrequent use in damp conditions can cause surface rust on brake components and seize linkages. Verify whether the rear pads have been replaced since the January advisory, as ignoring the binding risk could lead to overheated hubs and premature disc failure.