2017 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · RT02 AMY

The 2017 Ford Kuga’s most recent MOT, conducted just ten months ago on 8 July 2025 at 63,382 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy but with a single critical advisory: the front tyres were worn close to the legal limit and exhibited uneven edge wear. This is a concerning trend, as the same issue was noted in the previous test cycle, suggesting either deferred maintenance or inconsistent tyre rotation/alignment. While no major defects were recorded in the 2025 test, the persistent tyre condition implies a lack of proactive care, particularly if the vehicle has been driven since then without intervention. The absence of advisories or failures in prior tests—such as the clean 2023 and 2022 passes—indicates the vehicle has not suffered catastrophic mechanical failures, but the tyre wear signals a need for immediate verification. The mileage progression reveals a steady, if unremarkable, usage pattern: approximately 7,000 miles annually, which aligns with typical expectations for a nine-year-old vehicle. The gaps between tests are standard (12 months), and there are no abrupt spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity that would suggest neglect or excessive wear. The 2024 test at 54,287 miles, however, did flag front brake pad and disc wear, a detail that should prompt further scrutiny—particularly if the vehicle has accumulated another 9,000 miles since then. The absence of rear brake or suspension faults in earlier tests does not preclude their development, given the age and mileage. A buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the front tyres, confirming they remain above the 1.6mm legal tread depth and that the edge wear has not progressed to a dangerous level. The front brake system warrants thorough examination: check for uneven pad thickness, disc runout, and binding calipers, as the 2024 advisories suggest accelerated wear. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect suspension bushes, coil springs, and steering rack boots for leaks or degradation, as these components often fail silently. Corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and subframes should also be assessed, particularly if the vehicle has been exposed to salted roads or poor storage conditions. The 2022 note about a child seat obstructing the rear belt inspection does not indicate a structural issue but serves as a reminder to verify all seatbelts and rear seating integrity during a test drive.