2011 KIA Ceed 1.6L Diesel · SH11 GCV

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of mechanical neglect. While it passed its most recent test on December 11, 2025 at 125,324 miles, it failed just three days prior with critical defects involving steering, lighting, and braking. The transition from a multi-fault failure to an immediate re-test pass suggests the owner is only addressing the minimum repairs required for legal compliance rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. At 125,324 miles over 15 years, the Kia Ceed averages approximately 8,350 miles per year, which is consistent with typical low-intensity usage. However, the data shows a significant burst of activity with 12,000 miles covered between December 2023 and December 2025. This rapid accumulation, combined with the recurring failure of the steering rack and brake components, indicates that the vehicle is currently in a stage where high-mileage wear-and-tear items are rapidly reaching the end of their service life. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the steering system, as the nearside inner steering rack arm was flagged for excessive free play in three consecutive annual tests between 2023, 2024, and 2025. This persistent issue suggests either a poor-quality repair or a failure to address the root cause. The braking system also requires scrutiny; the December 2024 failure noted a binding rear service brake and an ABS/ESC fault, followed by thin front pads. You should verify that the ABS faults have been properly cleared and that the rear calipers are not currently sticking or causing uneven pad wear. The record also highlights a lack of attention to basic consumable upkeep. The December 2025 advisory notes both the nearside front and offside rear tyres are worn close to the legal limit with uneven edges. Given the history of ignoring minor faults like position lamps until they caused a failure, the buyer should expect immediate expenditure on new tyres and potentially further suspension components shortly after purchase.