2017 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · SA53 SDA

A consistent record of roadworthiness is evident across the vehicle's history, though it has been punctuated by specific steering and braking defects. While the most recent test on 2026-06-08 was a clean pass with no defects, the overall trend shows occasional issues with critical safety components, including a failure in June 2025 due to a missing track rod locking device on the nearside front steering. The recorded mileage of 47,791 miles is low for a nine-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,310 miles per year. This usage pattern suggests the vehicle has spent significant time stationary or has been used for short-distance journeys, which can lead to different wear characteristics compared to high-mileage motorway vehicles, particularly regarding the degradation of rubber components and the potential for brake stiction. Attention should be paid to the steering system following the 2025 failure of the nearside front track rod locking device. During a test drive, the buyer should check for any vagueness in the steering feel or unexpected knocks when turning the wheel at low speeds. Any deviation in steering alignment or a pull to one side under acceleration or braking would warrant further investigation into the current state of the steering linkages. The braking system also requires scrutiny due to 2022 advisories regarding an imbalanced front system and a binding offside front service brake. Although these were not flagged in subsequent tests, the buyer should feel for any pedal judder or a sensation of the vehicle pulling to one side during braking. Additionally, given the 2020 advisory for a perishing nearside front tyre, a physical inspection of all tyre sidewalls for similar cracking or weather-checking is necessary to ensure the rubber has not degraded.