2011 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · VO61 PTY

The current roadworthiness of this Ford Kuga is concerning, as the maintenance record indicates a worsening trend of neglect. While the vehicle holds a valid MOT certificate from July 2025, the transition from a failure to a pass within twenty-four hours suggests that only the most critical safety defects were addressed to secure the certificate, leaving several significant mechanical issues unresolved. The recurring nature of these faults year over year points to a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than proactive repair. The vehicle has covered 149,613 miles over fifteen years, averaging approximately 10,000 miles annually. This usage is consistent with typical private ownership, showing no evidence of long-term storage or excessive high-mileage abuse. However, the consistent failure to address tyre tread depth and brake wear until the point of legal failure indicates that the previous keeper prioritised minimal compliance over long-term mechanical health. Prospective buyers must prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering and suspension systems. The steering rack inner joints have been flagged repeatedly since 2023, indicating a persistent issue that likely impacts handling precision. Furthermore, the 2025 test highlighted severe deterioration of the offside front constant velocity boot, which risks permanent damage to the drive shaft if left unaddressed. The presence of corrosion on both the front and rear sub-frames, alongside the rear suspension arms, requires a physical check to ensure the structural integrity has not degraded beyond the tester's initial assessment. Finally, the braking system requires immediate attention. The record shows a continuous history of thin brake pads, suggesting the vehicle has been operated near the threshold of component failure for several years. Given the age of the vehicle and the documented corrosion, a buyer should anticipate significant expenditure to rectify the steering play, suspension wear, and potential sub-frame degradation. This vehicle currently represents a high-maintenance proposition that requires a comprehensive mechanical overhaul to be considered reliable.