2017 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · SF67 KXE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend regarding mechanical wear on the steering and drivetrain components. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 147,844 miles resulted in a pass, it revealed several significant defects that were absent in previous tests, including a front oil leak, play in both steering rack inner joints, and a severely deteriorated CV boot on the nearside front drive shaft. This suggests that while repairs are being made, they are occurring reactively rather than through preventative maintenance. At 147,844 miles, this nine-year-old Kuga has clocked high mileage, averaging over 16,000 miles per year. The data shows a period of intensive use, particularly the 5,778 miles covered between October 2024 and January 2026. This high annual mileage explains the degradation of rubber components and steering hardware. The gap between the July 2024 and October 2024 tests shows an accumulation of 2,080 miles in just three months, indicating the vehicle is subjected to heavy usage cycles over short intervals. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the steering and front suspension assembly. The recurring reports of steering rack inner joint play, noted in early 2023 and again in early 2026, indicate a persistent weakness or rapid wear in the steering system. The deteriorated CV boot flagged in the 2026 test requires immediate attention to prevent catastrophic failure of the front drive shaft joint. Furthermore, the persistent engine oil leaks noted from the sump area in 2024 and the front of the engine in 2026 should be monitored to ensure they are not escalating or associated with failing oil seals.