2019 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · TH07 NMS

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 1 April 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing the largely positive trend seen across the vehicle's history. The 2025 test was similarly unblemished, and the only advisory items in recent years relate to front inner tyre wear noted in March 2024. The single failure, recorded in April 2022, was a straightforward electrical issue involving an offside rear fog lamp not working, which is typically a minor repair such as a bulb or fuse replacement rather than an indicator of systemic mechanical concern. Taken as a whole, the maintenance trajectory is stable and suggests the car has been kept in consistent roadworthy condition, with no recurring structural, braking, or suspension advisories appearing across the test history. With 27,421 miles recorded over approximately seven years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 3,917 miles annually, which is notably below the typical mileage for a car of this age. This figure may reflect genuine low use, a period of extended standing, or perhaps partial reliance on a second vehicle in the household. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox internals, it carries its own risks. Long periods of inactivity can encourage moisture accumulation in the engine oil, degradation of brake fluid beyond its service life, and corrosion on brake discs from standing, particularly on the rear axle where discs may have become lightly corroded or the calipers may have developed a tendency to bind. Given the low annual mileage, particular attention should be paid during a physical inspection to age-related degradation rather than purely wear-related items. Tyres should be examined carefully for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and a car that has covered few miles may still present tyres that are original or several years old. Brake discs should be inspected for surface corrosion, especially on the rear, and the caliper slide pins should be checked for free movement to confirm nothing is seizing from lack of use. The 12V battery is another item to scrutinise; batteries that have spent much of their life in a partially charged state, or that are approaching the end of their typical four to six year service life, may struggle under load and should ideally be load tested. Fluid conditions for the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission if fitted should also be verified, as time-based degradation is just as relevant as mileage-based servicing. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate perished bushes or worn top mounts, both plausible after seven years regardless of mileage. Pay attention to the behaviour of the brakes, particularly whether the pedal feels firm and the vehicle pulls straight under light and moderate braking, as opposed to exhibiting shudder or uneven retardation that could indicate warped or corroded discs. Verify that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after engine start, that the rear fog lamp and other lighting functions operate correctly, and that the climate control, infotainment, and any driver assistance systems such as parking sensors or lane keeping functions respond as expected. Finally, confirm a complete service history with stamps or invoices at the correct intervals, as low-mileage vehicles are sometimes serviced by time rather than distance, and ensure the timing belt or chain replacement interval for the 1.5 litre EcoBoost or 2.0 TDCi engine, depending on which is fitted, has been addressed in line with Ford's published schedule.