2018 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · SB18 EVC

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a consistent trend of neglect regarding rubber-based consumables. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 42,384 miles passed, it flagged both front tyres as reaching the legal limit and showing uneven edge wear. This represents a progression from previous years where only the rear tyres were noted for cracking or perishing, suggesting that the owner waits until components reach a failure point before replacing rather than performing preventative maintenance. The mileage profile is notably low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,300 miles per annum. Data shows significant gaps in usage, such as the 7,846 miles driven between November 2024 and October 2025. This low-use pattern explains the recurring advisories for tyre perishing and cracking seen in 2022, 2023, and 2024. When a vehicle sits for long periods without movement, the rubber compound dries out and cracks regardless of how much tread depth remains. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the tyre set to ensure the sidewalling has been replaced since the last MOT advisories. The 2023 test also flagged rear inner brake discs as pitted and scored, which is a common symptom of low-mileage vehicles where brakes are not used frequently to clear surface rust. The uneven edge wear noted on the front tyres in 2025 indicates a potential wheel alignment issue or worn suspension bushes that require professional attention to prevent premature wear of new tyres.