2019 KIA Sportage 1.6L Diesel · RO69 OOV

The most recent MOT test recorded on 19 November 2025 shows a pass with no defects recorded, which is the outcome a prospective buyer will want to see. However, it is worth noting that the same date also carries a failure entry for an engine oil leak recorded as a Major defect under item 8.4.1 (a) (i), which means a subsequent re-test must have been successfully carried out to achieve the pass. Looking at the broader MOT history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but with isolated weaknesses rather than a pattern of steady deterioration. The earlier 2024 test recorded multiple issues including a dangerous tyre tread depth failure on both front tyres, dangerous-level seat belt damage, and headlamp aim defects, alongside advisories for damaged webbing and obscured driver view. In 2023 there was a rear brake pad advisory, and 2022 was entirely clean. The pattern suggests the vehicle has been generally maintained to a reasonable standard, but specific areas such as the engine sealing, brake consumables, tyres, and lighting have required attention at intervals. The recorded mileage of 67,562 miles over a seven-year lifespan equates to an annual average of approximately 9,650 miles, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a family SUV of this age. There are no large unexplained gaps in the recorded mileage between MOT tests, indicating consistent use rather than long periods of standing. This is mechanically beneficial because regular usage helps prevent issues associated with inactivity such as brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, flat spots on tyres, and 12V battery degradation. A consistent annual mileage also suggests more even wear across mechanical components, particularly the clutch, engine, and drivetrain, rather than the accelerated wear that can accompany high-mileage use or the localised degradation that affects low-mileage vehicles left standing. Given the engine oil leak that resulted in a Major failure in late 2025, this warrants particular attention from any prospective buyer. On a test drive, listen for any irregular engine noises such as tapping or rattling which can indicate inadequate lubrication, watch for blue exhaust smoke suggesting oil consumption, and inspect the underside of the engine and surrounding components for fresh oil residue or staining. It is also advisable to check the engine oil level and condition on the dipstick, looking for dark, sludgy oil or a level below the minimum mark, and to inspect the area around the sump, camshaft cover, and oil filter for signs of sealant failure or gasket deterioration. A garage inspection to pressure-test the engine for the source of the leak would be prudent, as oil leaks from the upper engine areas such as the cam cover or front crankshaft seal can escalate if left unresolved. Beyond the recorded defects, a seven-year-old Sportage with average mileage should also be physically inspected for age-related deterioration regardless of the MOT record. Check all four tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking from age, even if the tread depth is currently legal, and inspect the brake discs for lipping and surface corrosion that can lead to shuddering under heavy braking. Examine the suspension components including coil springs, anti-roll bar bushes, and drop links for any signs of wear or splitting, listening for knocks or clonks over uneven road surfaces during a test drive. Verify that the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed according to manufacturer schedules, check the 12V battery health as batteries beyond five years are prone to failure, and confirm that brake fluid and coolant have been changed at their calendar-based intervals. Finally, ensure the seat belt fitted to the offside rear has been properly replaced rather than simply repaired, as MOT criteria for seat belt integrity are absolute, and confirm the headlamp alignment has been correctly adjusted since the 2024 failure.