2018 KIA Soul 1.6L Diesel · WHZ 4016

Recurring advisories regarding braking components and tyre wear represent the primary mechanical trend for this vehicle, following its most recent pass on 09 January 2026. While the vehicle has avoided major mechanical failures since a lighting and windscreen defect in early 2022, the MOT history shows a progressive accumulation of advisories related to the braking system. Specifically, the records indicate a pattern of thinning brake pads and worn brake discs across both the 2024 and 2025 tests, which has now extended to include rear brake pad wear in the latest 2026 inspection. The recorded mileage of 46,972 miles against an eight-year age profile indicates a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,872 miles. This pattern of low mileage suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to the heavy high-speed motorway wear associated with higher-mileage vehicles, but it also means the mechanical components have primarily experienced shorter, potentially urban journeys. Such usage can sometimes lead to more frequent advisory notices for consumable items like brake pads and tyres, as these components are frequently cycled through stop-start driving rather than sustained cruising. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive to address the ongoing advisories for pads and discs. Given the recent notes regarding worn front discs and thinning pads on both the nearside and offside, you should check for any pedal judder or vibration when applying the brakes at speed, which can indicate disc thickness issues or warping. Additionally, listen for any squealing or grinding noises during low-speed braking, which would suggest the pads have reached the point of metal-on-metal contact. The 2026 advisory regarding front tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges also warrants a physical inspection of the tread depth and shoulder wear. When inspecting the tyres, look specifically for uneven wear patterns on the inner or outer edges of the front 215 55 17 tyres, as this can indicate underlying issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. If the tyres are wearing unevenly on the edges, you may notice a slight steering pull or a wandering sensation while driving on a straight road. Because the brake advisories have been appearing consistently for three consecutive years, it is essential to verify if the components flagged in the 2024 and 2025 tests were actually replaced or if the wear has simply progressed to the current state reported in the January 2026 test.