2013 KIA Picanto 1.0L Petrol · WG13 VJM

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend regarding front end suspension components. While the most recent test in April 2026 at 109,923 miles passed, the tester identified new play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage and the suspension arm ball joint. These issues follow a pattern established in September 2024 where worn suspension arm bushes and a faulty linkage were flagged, suggesting that the front suspension assembly is undergoing progressive degradation without proactive replacement. At a recorded 109,923 miles, the Picanto has averaged approximately 8,450 miles per year, which is consistent with typical UK usage for a car of this age. The data shows a steady increase in mileage, with roughly 13,000 miles covered between May 2023 and September 2024, and another 13,000 miles in the following twenty-one months. This consistent mileage suggests the vehicle is used regularly, though the failure in 2024 for wipers and bulbs indicates that basic maintenance is only addressed after a MOT test failure. A physical inspection must focus heavily on the front suspension geometry. The recurring failures of ball joints and bushes across the 2024 and 2026 tests indicate these components are nearing the end of their functional life. The buyer should also investigate the corrosion noted on the rear brake hose ferrules in the April 2026 test, as rust on flexible lines can lead to sudden failure if not monitored. Given the history of worn tyres noted in 2022, the current tread depth requires checking to ensure they are not operating near legal margins.