2016 KIA RIO 1.4L Petrol · SS16 HMV

An unusually low usage pattern defines this vehicle, which has maintained a clean roadworthiness record for the last two years following a period of minor component issues. While the most recent test on 18 August 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects, the historical data shows a trend of resolving specific consumables and visibility issues. Between 2022 and 2023, the vehicle recorded failures related to windscreen washer functionality and wiper effectiveness, alongside several advisories concerning tyre wear and perishing. These issues have since been cleared, resulting in two consecutive years of defect-free results. The recorded mileage of 27,371 miles against a ten-year age profile indicates an average annual accumulation of approximately 2,737 miles. This level of usage is significantly lower than the UK average, which often suggests the vehicle has spent considerable periods stationary or was used only for very short, infrequent trips. Mechanically, such low mileage means that while high-wear drivetrain components may show less fatigue, other elements such as rubber seals, suspension bushes, and tyres are more susceptible to age-related degradation and perishing rather than wear from friction. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the condition of the tyres, specifically looking for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, as the 2023 record explicitly flagged an offside rear tyre for this issue. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, age-related deterioration in the rubber can compromise grip. During a test drive, listen for any unevenness in the tyre surface or rhythmic thumping that might indicate flat-spotting from long periods of inactivity. Check the tyre sidewalls for any fine cracks, particularly in the grooves, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven regularly. Given the history of windscreen washer and wiper failures, it is prudent to verify the operation of the entire visibility system. Ensure the washer jets provide a strong, directed spray across the entire windscreen and that the wiper blades sweep the glass smoothly without streaking, juddering, or skipping. While the recent passes suggest these items are currently functional, verifying the integrity of the washer pump and the condition of the wiper arms is a necessary step to ensure the previous failures have been fully rectified and are not likely to recur due to perished rubber or blocked nozzles.