2018 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · SW68 SVR

The 2018 Ford Kuga presents a worsening mechanical trend despite passing its most recent MOT on November 20, 2025, at 59,875 miles. The 2025 test revealed multiple advisories indicating deferred maintenance, particularly concerning the braking system and rear suspension. The tester flagged worn rear suspension arm trailing arm front bushes on both sides, alongside corroded brake pipes and brake hose ferrules heavily coated in copper grease. Masking corrosion with grease suggests a cosmetic approach to underlying deterioration rather than proper repair. The rear tyres were also worn close to the legal limit and showing edge wear, pointing to neglected basic consumable upkeep and potential alignment issues. Covering roughly 7,484 miles per year, the mileage accumulation is entirely typical for an eight-year-old vehicle, ruling out extreme standing or excessive use. The recorded intervals show steady progression: 29,876 miles in December 2022, 39,765 miles in November 2023, 49,677 miles in November 2024, and 59,875 miles in November 2025. This consistent 10,000-mile annual increment indicates regular use without significant gaps in the testing record. The recent test in late 2025 is highly relevant to the current date of June 2026, meaning the vehicle has covered minimal mileage since its last inspection. A physical inspection must prioritize the rear suspension and braking components. The recurring wear on the rear trailing arm front bushes requires immediate scrutiny, as degraded bushes affect wheel alignment and tyre wear, evidenced by the edge wear on the rear tyres in 2025 and the front tyres in 2024. Buyers should thoroughly examine the nearside and offside rear brake pipes and hoses for structural integrity, given the documented corrosion hidden under grease. Repeatedly replacing tyres just before an MOT, as seen with the front tyres in 2024 and rear tyres in 2025, implies a pattern of running components to their absolute limits. Checking the condition of the brake pads and discs, particularly the rear set flagged as wearing thin in late 2024, remains essential to verify they have been replaced or possess sufficient life.