2012 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · SP12 LPF

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 23 April 2025, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be deteriorating. While the car has achieved a pass, the volume and nature of the advisories have increased in recent years. Specifically, the transition from minor wear in earlier years to systemic corrosion of suspension and steering components, alongside recurring steering rack play, suggests a vehicle that is beginning to suffer from age-related degradation and a lack of preventative maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 127,216 miles over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged around 9,087 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. However, this level of mileage means that high-wear consumables and drivetrain components are likely reaching the end of their natural service life. The buyer should expect that major suspension overhauls and drivetrain refreshes are now due, as the mileage coincides with the typical failure window for steering racks and constant velocity joints in this model. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the steering and suspension systems. The recurring advisories regarding play in the steering rack inner joints are a significant red flag; during a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when turning the wheel at low speeds or driving over uneven surfaces. The report of general corrosion across all suspension and steering components indicates that the underbody is susceptible to rust, which can compromise structural integrity and lead to premature failure of coil springs and suspension bushes. Check for uneven tyre wear, which often signals that the steering geometry is compromised due to the noted rack and track rod issues. The persistent mention of an oil leak since November 2023 suggests a chronic issue that has not been fully rectified. Inspect the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle for fresh oil deposits, and check the oil level to ensure it is not consuming lubricant rapidly. Additionally, while the rear brake discs were noted as pitted and scored in 2020, the buyer should verify if they have since been replaced, as pitted discs can lead to reduced braking efficiency and brake shudder. Finally, given the history of perishing tyres and a damaged windscreen, a full inspection of all rubber seals and glass integrity is required to ensure the vehicle remains watertight and safe.