2013 KIA RIO 1.4L Petrol · SC62 AEG

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a pattern of recurring mechanical issues that have not been fully resolved, suggesting a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach. While the car passed its most recent test on 11 March 2024 at 62,165 miles, the record shows several persistent advisories. Specifically, the front exhaust flexi section has been flagged for a minor leak in both the March 2023 and March 2024 tests. An oil leak, noted as not excessive, has been a constant presence in the MOT history since at least February 2019. The mileage profile indicates low annual usage, averaging approximately 4,782 miles per year over its thirteen-year lifespan. This low usage is consistent with the recorded 62,165 miles as of March 2024. However, the frequency of failures on consumables suggests that the vehicle may spend long periods stationary, which can lead to the deterioration of rubber components and the seizing of braking elements. The gap between the 2024 test and the current date of July 2026 means the last recorded MOT is over two years old, requiring an immediate update to ensure current legality and safety. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the suspension and braking systems. The March 2024 failure highlighted significant issues with front suspension arm bushes and ball joints, as well as a binding nearside rear brake. These issues mirror failures seen in March 2023 and March 2022, where suspension components and brake imbalance were recurring themes. The history of pitted brake discs and worn linings across multiple years suggests the braking hardware may be nearing the end of its service life or has suffered from lack of use. Physical inspection should also prioritize the exhaust system and the engine bay to monitor the long-standing oil leak. Given the previous failures regarding tyre tread depth and inoperative lighting, a thorough check of all exterior lamps and the condition of the tyres is necessary. The recurring mention of worn suspension bushes and ball joints indicates that the steering and ride quality may be compromised, so a road test to check for knocks or play in the front end is essential.