2018 KIA Optima 1.7L Diesel · RO18 WBY

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive approach rather than preventative care. The most recent test on 4 May 2026 at 86,744 miles resulted in a failure due to a jammed rear seat belt buckle, a loose rear anti-roll bar linkage, and an insecure exhaust heat shield. While these issues were rectified to secure a pass, the pattern of multiple failures suggests the previous owner only addressed mechanical faults once they reach the threshold of an MOT test failure. At 86,744 miles over eight years, the Optima has averaged approximately 10,800 miles per annum, which aligns with typical UK usage patterns for a family saloon. The data shows consistent mileage accumulation, with roughly 9,500 miles driven between April 2024 and April 2025, and another 14,600 miles covered by May 2026. This regular use suggests the vehicle has not sat, but the components are experiencing standard wear and tear associated with this mileage. A buyer must scrutinise the braking system, as the record shows a recurring history of fluctuating front brakes and binding rear calipers. In April 2024, the tester flagged the offside rear brake disc for significant wear on the inner surface, and binding issues persisted into the 2025 test advisories. This suggests a potential issue with caliper sticking or disc-related corrosion. Additionally, the repeated reports of tyres worn to the legal limit in both 2024 and 2025 indicate a neglect of basic tyre maintenance and potential alignment issues. The suspension requires a close inspection, specifically the nearside rear anti-roll bar linkage which was flagged for play in the 2026 test. The exhaust system should also be checked for secure mounting and heat shielding, as these were points of failure in both 2024 and 2026. Ensure the rear seat belt mechanism functions freely now, as the jammed buckle noted in the latest failure is a safety-critical component that must have been replaced or repaired.