2021 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · SH21 FVT

The KIA Sportage’s most recent MOT test on 2025-06-09 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, though it is notable that the vehicle was tested twice on the same day—once failing at 15,538 miles and then passing at 15,547 miles. This suggests either a minor oversight in the initial inspection or a very short interval between tests, but no substantive issues were identified. The preceding MOT in 2024-05-28 also passed without failings, indicating a stable roadworthiness trend over the past year. There is no evidence of recurring mechanical faults in the official record, though the lack of advisories or defects does not preclude hidden wear—particularly in areas like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake components, which are not always captured in a standard MOT. The vehicle’s mileage of 15,547 miles at the latest test is unusually low for a five-year-old car, averaging just over 3,100 miles per year. This suggests either minimal use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate certain forms of wear, such as tyre degradation or suspension stiffness from lack of movement. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—approximately 13 months—is standard, but the abrupt doubling of mileage between the 2024 pass (14,368 miles) and the 2025 tests (15,547 miles) warrants scrutiny. If the vehicle was driven extensively in that period, components like brakes, tyres, and fluid systems may require closer inspection for accelerated wear. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in Kia Sportages and are not always flagged in a basic MOT. The brakes, including caliper binding and disc thickness, should be checked for uneven wear, as the vehicle’s sudden mileage increase could indicate higher-than-average braking demands. Additionally, the exhaust system and underbody should be examined for corrosion, especially if the car has spent time off-road or in wet conditions. While the MOT record shows no failures, these areas are critical for long-term reliability and should not be overlooked.