2011 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · SM11 XEL
2011 KIA Sportage (1.7L, diesel). First registered 11 Aug 2011. Recorded mileage 141,820 miles. MOT valid until 17 Jul 2027. Taxed until 01 Feb 2027. No outstanding manufacturer safety recalls recorded.
- Make & Model
- KIA SPORTAGE
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Edinburgh
- Safety Recall
- None Outstanding
- MOT Status
- Valid until 17 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Feb 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 141,820 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.7L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
SM11 XEL Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/07/2026
- 141,820 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (18 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
SM11 XEL MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2011 Kia Sportage (SM11 XEL) between July 2024 and July 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 16 July 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (18 issues), Tyres (10 issues), Lighting (7 issues), Windscreen (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 29 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Rear Suspension arm pin or bush excessively worn corroded (5.3.4 (a) (i))”; “Offside Rear Suspension arm pin or bush excessively worn corroded (5.3.4 (a) (i))”; “Nearside Front Tyre has a cut in excess of the requirements deep enough to reach the ply or cords Ply (5.2.3 (d) (i))”.
SM11 XEL Mileage History
- 16/07/2024121,670 mi
- 19/07/2024121,715 mi+45 mi
- 14/07/2025132,645 mi+10,930 mi
- 18/07/2025132,789 mi+144 mi
- 16/07/2026141,820 mi+9,031 mi
Average of roughly 10,086 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Kia Sportage (SL)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution due to high mileage and recurring MOT failures. While the most recent test was clean, the vehicle sits significantly above average mileage for its age.
When inspecting this Sportage, your priority should be the high mileage. At over 130,000 miles, you must verify if the timing belt (if applicable to this specific engine) has been replaced according to the interval. Ask for a full service history, as the MOT records alone do not show mechanical maintenance of the diesel engine.
Given the MOT failures in July 2024 and 2025, ask the owner exactly what was repaired to achieve the pass. If the failures were for consumable items like tyres or brakes, this is common, but if they involved structural or suspension components, it may indicate a lack of proactive maintenance.
The 1685cc diesel engine is generally efficient for long-distance driving, but costs will be influenced by the age and mileage. You should expect a mid-range insurance group typical for a 2011 SUV and standard diesel tax bands.
Maintenance costs may be higher at this mileage bracket as components like injectors, clutches, and suspension bushings often require attention. Estimate annual running costs around £1,200-£1,500, including fuel, tax, and a maintenance fund.
Pay close attention to the MOT history; the vehicle failed in both 2024 and 2025 just days before the scheduled test. While the specific defects weren't listed in the summary, you should check the brake discs, pads, and tyres, as these are the top failure reasons for the Sportage model.
Inspect the underside for signs of oil leaks, which are common on high-mileage diesel engines. Additionally, check the suspension for any knocking or knocking, as the 132,000 miles put significant strain on the bushings and shocks.
This 2011 KIA Sportage is a 1.6L diesel variant that has covered 132,789 miles, which is considerably higher than the average 7,929 miles per year for this model. Although it passed its most recent MOT with no defects, the history shows a pattern of failures in 2024 and 2025 that suggest issues addressed just before test deadlines.
The 2011 Sportage is generally robust, but high-mileage examples are prone to wear on braking systems and suspension components.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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KIA SPORTAGE Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2011 model year cars.
- DPF and EGR clogging on CRDi modelsModerate
Like many family SUVs, short journeys clog the DPF and EGR system, causing poor economy, limp mode and repeat warning lights on otherwise strong engines.
- AWD coupling and rear differential noiseModerate
Matched tyres and correct servicing matter. Neglect can lead to rear-coupling judder or differential whine, especially on higher-mileage AWD Sportages.
- Rear suspension bush and link wearModerate
A common UK wear theme rather than a design disaster. Bushes, links and dampers tire, leaving the rear of the car noisy and unsettled.
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