2016 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · TA02 RAS

A consistent pattern of brake wear is the defining mechanical theme in this Ford Kuga's MOT history, with both pads and discs flagged across multiple tests spanning 2024 and 2026. The most recent test on 14 May 2026 was a pass, but it carried advisories for both front and rear brake pads wearing thin, continuing a trend that first appeared at the end of 2024 when rear brake pads were already noted as wearing thin and all four brake discs showed pitting or scoring on the 2 January 2026 inspection. That same January date produced a failure on the same visit before a pass was recorded, though the specific failure reason is not detailed in the supplied records beyond the advisory notes shared with the pass. The accumulation of braking component advisories over a relatively short testing window indicates that the friction material and disc surfaces are approaching or have reached the end of their service life, which is a notable consideration for any prospective buyer. Annual mileage of roughly 9,170 miles over a ten-year life is broadly typical for the vehicle's age and suggests neither significant underuse nor excessive long-distance running. There is a gap in the testing record between the late 2024 tests and the early-to-mid 2026 tests, which on a ten-year-old car does not necessarily indicate a lay-up period but should be clarified directly with the seller regarding how and where the vehicle was used during that interval. The mileage accumulation between tests appears consistent with steady commuter or family use, which for a Kuga of this age places predictable wear on the braking system, tyres, suspension bushes and exhaust components as highlighted in the recorded advisories. The most pressing inspection priorities for a buyer are the braking system and the rear offside shock absorber. Given that all four discs were flagged as pitted or scored and both front and rear pads are now reported as wearing thin, a close inspection of pad thickness on all four corners and a measurement of disc wear with a micrometer or visual check for lipping is advisable, ideally before purchase rather than relying solely on the advisory descriptions. On a test drive, listen for any squeal or grinding under light braking, feel for vibration or shudder through the brake pedal which would suggest disc runout, and check for pulling to one side which could indicate a binding caliper following pad replacement. The offside rear shock absorber noted as having light oil misting in December 2024 warrants a physical inspection for dampness around the shaft seal and a check for any staining on the body of the unit, as oil misting can progress to a more serious leak and affect damping performance. The tyre-related advisories from late 2024, including edge wear on both the offside front and nearside tyres, point towards possible geometry or suspension alignment issues that should not be overlooked. During a road test, pay particular attention to steering symmetry, any drift or pull at a steady speed on a level road, and uneven wear patterns on the current tyres which can indicate worn wishbone bushes, drop links or track rod ends typical of a Kuga at this mileage. The nail-in-tyre advisory recorded in January 2026 should be confirmed as having been professionally repaired rather than just relying on a temporary plug, and all four tyres should be checked for their production date and remaining tread depth regardless of age. With braking components nearing the end of their useful life and a rear shock showing early signs of oil loss, budgeting for imminent replacement of pads, discs and possibly the rear damper would be a prudent approach when negotiating the purchase.