2016 Ford Kuga 1.5L Petrol · SE16 FVG

A recurring theme of brake wear combined with a brief episode of electronic failures defines the mechanical picture of this 2016 Ford Kuga. The latest MOT on 28 September 2026 recorded a pass but retained advisories that the rear brake discs are worn and the rear pads are thinning, echoing the same rear‑brake notes from the failed test two weeks earlier. That earlier failure highlighted a dangerous front‑pad thickness below 1.5 mm, a non‑functional engine MIL indicator and a faulty tyre‑pressure monitoring system, all of which appear to have been remedied before the subsequent pass. Overall the trend shows a vehicle that has cleared recent serious defects but still carries lingering wear on its rear braking system. With 57,466 mi logged over roughly ten years the annual average sits at about 5,700 mi, well below the typical UK usage rate. The consistent yearly MOTs indicate the vehicle has been kept on the road without long storage gaps, yet the low mileage suggests lighter duty rather than high wear. Mechanical components that are mileage‑dependent, such as brake pads, tyres and suspension bushings, may therefore exhibit wear patterns more linked to age than distance, while rubber seals and hoses could have aged regardless of the modest miles. When inspecting the brakes, feel for any pulsation or sponginess in the pedal and listen for squeal or grinding that could signal disc thinning beyond the advisory limit. Measure the rear pad thickness and compare it to the minimum safe value (3 mm) and verify the front pads have been replaced or are still within acceptable limits. A thorough road test should include firm braking from moderate speed to confirm consistent pedal feel and no pull to one side, which would indicate uneven disc wear or caliper binding. Confirm that the engine warning light remains extinguished under normal operation and that the TPMS warning does not illuminate when the vehicle is driven; a diagnostic scan can verify that no lingering fault codes remain. Check the front wiper blade for split sections and replace it if clearance is inadequate. Inspect the coolant reservoir for the correct level and look for any external leaks, and examine the front tyres for edge wear that approached the legal limit in 2024, ensuring current tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm. Finally, verify that the washer jets deliver a steady spray onto the windscreen, as misalignment was previously noted. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of the Kuga’s current roadworthiness.