2014 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · ST53 KAS

A consistent record of MOT pass results with no recorded failures or dangerous defects defines the roadworthiness history of this 2014 Ford Kuga, though it is not entirely advisory-free. The most recent test on 31 July 2026 produced a clean pass with no defects recorded, continuing an unbroken sequence of passes that stretches back to 2019. The only meaningful blemish within the recorded history occurred at the 9 July 2025 test, which issued four advisories concerning both front tyres and the nearside rear tyre for slight damage, cracking or perishing, alongside a note that the rear brake discs were worn, pitted or scored, though not considered seriously weakened at that point. Between the 2025 advisories and the 2026 pass, no further tyre or brake disc issues were recorded, indicating these items either remained within acceptable tolerance or were addressed privately between tests. The overall trajectory is one of stable roadworthiness, with isolated advisory items concentrated in a single testing cycle rather than representing a chronic or worsening pattern. Mileage accumulation across the recorded MOT history aligns broadly with typical expectations for a twelve-year-old vehicle, with the latest reading of 73,544 miles on 31 July 2026 corresponding to an average of roughly 6,100 miles per year over the vehicle's life. The progression between recorded tests is reasonably steady, with the annual figure sitting comfortably within the normal range for a privately used family crossover. There are no extended gaps in the testing record that would suggest prolonged off-road storage, and no sudden mileage jumps that would point to inconsistent odometer readings or exceptional use. This measured rate of accumulation suggests moderate wear on consumable components such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension bushes, without the accelerated degradation typically associated with high annual mileages or the corrosion risks associated with long periods of standing unused. For a prospective buyer, the advisory items recorded in mid-2025 warrant the most direct physical attention during inspection. The three tyre advisories for slight damage, cracking or perishing across both front tyres and the nearside rear indicate that the original or long-standing tyres had begun to suffer age-related rubber degradation, a common occurrence on vehicles of this age regardless of tread depth. On inspection, the sidewalls should be examined closely for visible cracking, crazing, or sidewall bulges, and the fitting date of any replacement tyres should be checked via the DOT stamp on the sidewall, as tyres fitted prior to 2020 would now be considered aged regardless of remaining tread. A test drive should include firm braking from moderate speed to assess pedal feel and any vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal, as the noted wear on the rear brake discs could, if progressed, introduce pedal pulsation or reduced braking efficiency under load. The rear brake disc advisory specifically noted pitting and scoring without serious weakening, which on a Kuga of this age commonly results from a combination of regular use, occasional light braking that does not fully clean the disc surface, and the natural corrosion cycle affecting cast iron. Given that no further disc advisories have appeared in the subsequent 2026 test, the components remain within serviceable limits, but a prospective buyer should still expect rear brake disc refurbishment or replacement to be a likely maintenance item within the next twelve to twenty-four months depending on driving style. During a test drive, listen for any metallic grinding or squealing under braking, and inspect the rear calipers for signs of seized pistons or uneven pad wear, which would manifest as the vehicle pulling to one side under braking. Given the Kuga's known susceptibility to rear suspension bush wear and occasional subframe corrosion on earlier examples, a physical inspection on a ramp for any fresh corrosion around the rear axle mounting points and a check for knocking or clonking noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces would form a sensible complement to the documented MOT findings.