2017 KIA Soul 1.6L Diesel · SL67 FBC

The most recent MOT on 13 May 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions requirements at that time. Over the preceding six years the MOT record shows a generally stable pattern, with the only failures being a single wiper deficiency in May 2022 that was rectified, and a series of advisories that have gradually shifted from brake‑disc wear in 2022 to increasingly pronounced tyre condition warnings in 2024 and 2025. The absence of new failures in the latest test suggests that any remedial work undertaken after the 2022 failure has been effective, but the accumulation of tyre advisories points to a deteriorating tyre set that will soon require replacement. At 51,319 mi the Kia Soul averages roughly 5,700 mi per year, a mileage figure that is low for a nine‑year‑old vehicle. Such light utilisation often indicates periods of limited use or extended storage, which can exacerbate age‑related degradation even when wear from distance is modest. Low annual mileage reduces the rate of consumable wear on components such as the clutch, gearbox and suspension, but it also means that rubber parts, batteries and fluids may have aged beyond their optimal service life despite the relatively low mileage. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre condition. All four tyres should be examined for sidewall cracks, perishing, and tread depth; the DOT code will reveal the manufacture date, and any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread wear. During a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that could indicate uneven wear or a developing internal defect, and feel for any pull to one side that might betray a mis‑aligned or damaged tyre. The brake system also warrants scrutiny: the off‑side rear disc was noted as pitted and the rear pads were thin in 2022, so the buyer should check disc surface uniformity, measure pad thickness, and verify that the pedal feels firm without pulsation. Confirm that the wipers now clear the windscreen effectively, as the previous failure suggests the mechanism may have been repaired but could still be prone to wear. Given the vehicle’s low usage, age‑related checks are essential. Test the 12 V battery voltage and inspect the terminals for corrosion; a battery older than four years may need replacement. Examine the suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for any signs of cracking or excessive play, especially since infrequent driving can allow corrosion to set in unnoticed. Inspect the under‑carriage for rust, particularly around wheel arches and the rear sub‑frame, and verify that brake fluid, coolant and engine oil have been changed at appropriate intervals – fluids can deteriorate with time even when the car is not driven. Finally, request the service book to confirm that the timing chain (or belt, if applicable) and other scheduled maintenance items have been observed, as adherence to the manufacturer’s service schedule will be a strong indicator of overall mechanical health.