2012 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · SA12 FHM

The 2012 Ford Kuga was last presented for MOT on 20 February 2026 and achieved a PASS, however the test carried five advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend is stable but showing clear signs of progressive rear suspension and front steering wear. Across the most recent tests we see persistent advisories on both track rod ends, both rear axle swivel pins and bushes, and a rear anti-roll bar pin or bush, indicating a pattern of component degradation rather than isolated issues. A rear coil spring was recorded as fractured at the March 2024 test, a major defect that would have required immediate rectification, and the parking brake was found inoperative on one side and below efficiency at the February 2023 test, also major items. Although the vehicle is passing, the density and recurrence of advisories point to a chassis that is showing its age and mileage, and one where further component renewals should be anticipated. The recorded mileage of 116,754 miles over roughly 14 years equates to an annual average of around 8,340 miles, which is broadly typical for the vehicle and consistent with mixed private mileage rather than long-term standing. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record, suggesting the car has been used regularly throughout its life, which is preferable from a corrosion and seal standpoint but does mean that mechanical consumables and suspension components have accumulated corresponding wear. The relatively high absolute mileage also implies that clutch, drivetrain, and engine internal wear should be considered alongside the chassis and braking system concerns visible in the MOT history. For a prospective buyer, the persistent front steering advisories on both track rod ends and tie rod ball joints should be investigated with the vehicle on a lift if possible, checking for free play that exceeds manufacturer tolerances and confirming whether the components have been replaced since the advisory was issued. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, vague or wandering steering response, and any juddering through the wheel under braking. The rear suspension cluster of advisories on axle swivel pins, anti-roll bar bushes and links is characteristic of the rear beam arrangement where bush wear leads to looseness and potential clonking over bumps; pay particular attention to any rear end instability, unusual tyre wear across the rear axle, or a feeling that the rear is unsettled during cornering. Given the previous fractured rear coil spring, both rear springs should be inspected for any sign of corrosion cracking, and a fresh MOT advisory on these items is highly likely within the next test cycle. Beyond the documented advisories, several age and mileage related checks are strongly recommended for a 14 year old Kuga at this mileage. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking and perishing, as aged rubber can deteriorate regardless of tread depth, and confirm the manufacturing date codes on the sidewalls. Examine the brake discs for lipping, surface corrosion and binding calipers, particularly given the earlier advisory on rear brake disc wear and the parking brake issue, and verify that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline. Check the underside for any oil residue tracing back to the earlier noted oil leak, including around the sump, cam cover, and turbo area if fitted. Confirm the 12V battery is recent and in good health, as batteries typically require replacement well before this age, and review the service history for evidence of timing belt replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid renewal, and automatic or manual transmission fluid changes. Finally, ensure that any advisory items carried over from previous tests have been professionally rectified with supporting invoices, as the recurrence of steering and rear suspension defects suggests these may still be outstanding.