2016 KIA Sportage 1.6L Petrol · ST66 OFG

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT in October 2025, though the inclusion of specific mechanical advisories suggests a maintenance trend that is beginning to decline. While the car has a history of successful tests, the presence of a dangerous failure in 2023 regarding brake pad thickness, combined with the most recent notes on steering and braking, indicates that consumables and critical components may not have been proactively managed. With a recorded mileage of 67,967 miles over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,800 miles per year. This level of usage is typical for a domestic vehicle and suggests it has not been subjected to excessive wear from high-mileage commuting. However, the low annual average can sometimes lead to issues associated with shorter journeys or periods of inactivity, which often manifests as accelerated degradation of rubber components and fluid contamination. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system and steering assembly. The history of uneven brake pad wear and a previous advisory for a binding rear caliper suggests a potential fault in the hydraulic system or seized sliders. During a test drive, feel for any brake shudder or a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side under braking. More critically, the reported knocking noise from within the steering rack requires urgent investigation. While stationary, rock the steering wheel firmly from side to side to listen for mechanical clunks, and ensure there is no excessive play or vagueness in the steering feel while driving. Further inspection should focus on the tyres and suspension geometry. Previous advisories regarding uneven inner edge wear and perishing tread grooves indicate a history of poor alignment or worn suspension bushes. Examine the current tyres for similar irregular wear patterns, as this often points to failing coil springs or worn track rod ends. Given the vehicle's age and relatively low mileage, verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other vital fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, and check the 12V battery health to ensure it has not been degraded by infrequent use.