2009 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · SA59 VFM

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a trend of reactive rather than preventative upkeep. The most recent MOT test, conducted in June 2023 at 142,567 miles, resulted in several mechanical advisories regarding exhaust leaks, brake"(, and corrosion. While the vehicle has passed its tests, the presence of multiple de-rating-related faults suggests that components are only being addressed once they approach failure thresholds or are flagged during inspection. At approximately 142,567 miles, the Sportage has averaged roughly 8,400 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a 2009 model. The data shows steady annual accumulation, such as the 13,000 miles covered between June 2022 and June 2023. This consistent mileage suggests the car has been used regularly, though the high age of the vehicle combined with this mileage places significant stress on the rubber-based suspension components and structural integrity of the exhaust system. A buyer should prioritize a thorough inspection of the power steering system, as the 2023 test noted seepage from the offside front steering rack component, which can lead to expensive repairs if the leak worsens. The recurring issues with worn suspension arm bushes and MacPherson strut pins noted in both 2020 and 2021 indicate that the front suspension is nearing the end of its service life. Furthermore, the corrosion noted on the offside rear back plate and bumper mountings should be monitored to ensure surface rust is not transitioning into the structural chassis or mounting points. The braking system also shows signs of neglect, with pitted rear brake discs and thin front pads identified in the latest records. The minor exhaust leak at the DPF mentioned in 2023 should also be checked, as exhaust leaks can impact emissions and performance over time. Given the history of tyres being worn to the legal limit across multiple years, the buyer should verify the current tread depth and alignment to ensure there is no uneven wear caused by the previously noted suspension faults.