2008 KIA Ceed 1.4L Petrol · SA08 ABF

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a worsening trend regarding structural and mechanical integrity. While the most recent test on 13 August 2025 at 66,892 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle has consistently struggled with recurring issues. The 4 August 2025 failure at 66,875 miles highlighted significant mechanical deterioration, including serious fluid leaks from both rear shock absorbers, a worn offside rear brake disc, and failing braking efficiency. The persistence of an exhaust gas leak and sub-frame corrosion across multiple years suggests that while the car is being kept operational, fundamental issues are being managed rather than fully resolved. The mileage pattern indicates very low usage for an 18-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,716 miles per year. The data shows a steady, albeit slow, accumulation of distance, moving from 53,286 miles in August 2020 to 66,892 miles in August 2025. This low annual mileage often correlates with the age-related degradation seen in the record. The lack of heavy mechanical wear from high mileage is offset by the effects of time, specifically regarding rubber components and metal oxidation. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's underside. The MOT history reveals a long-standing pattern of corrosion, specifically affecting the front sub-frame, MacPherson struts, and rear axle. Although the tester has consistently noted this corrosion as not seriously weakened, the heavy corrosion on the rear axle recorded in August 2023 remains a point of concern. The recurring failures involving track rod ends, steering rack play, and suspension arm bushes suggest the front-end geometry and steering components require close scrutiny. The braking system also warrants a detailed physical check. The vehicle has experienced multiple issues ranging from inoperative parking brakes and poor service brake efficiency in 2024 and 2025 to pitted and scored discs in 2020. Given the recent failure of the rear brake discs and the history of parking brake inefficiency, verifying the current state of the calipers, discs, and pads is essential. Finally, the recent advisory regarding a nearside front tyre worn on the edge suggests that alignment issues may still be present despite recent repairs.