2020 KIA Niro 4 EV Electric · WJ70 FCG

A pattern of recurring consumable wear defines the roadworthiness record of this electric crossover, which most recently secured an MOT pass on the fifteenth of September 2026 after a brief initial refusal for an incorrectly aligned nearside front headlamp. Reviewing the historical data shows that this single failure was swiftly rectified on the same day, joining earlier annual passes from 2023 through 2025. While the vehicle has not accumulated major structural or mechanical defects across its four recorded tests, the history reveals persistent attention required for secondary items such as lighting and tyres, indicating a steady baseline of roadworthiness punctuated by minor maintenance oversights prior to testing. Accumulating 31,236 miles over roughly six years results in an average of approximately 5,200 miles annually, representing a relatively low usage profile for a modern battery-electric vehicle. This restrained mileage accumulation means the high-voltage propulsion system, electric motor, and reduction gearbox have experienced lighter thermal and rotational cycles than higher-mileage counterparts of the same age. However, low annual usage can sometimes accelerate localized environmental degradation on rubber and electrical peripherals if the vehicle has experienced extended periods of static parking between short journeys, making a thorough physical inspection essential beneath the vehicle. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the tyre history, as previous annual tests consistently highlighted rear tyre wear close to the legal limit, edge wear, and perishing or stepping on both rear tyres. During the physical viewing, measure the tread depth across the full width of all four tyres and inspect the sidewalls for any signs of premature cracking or age-related perishing, which can be exacerbated by low-mileage storage patterns. Additionally, verify that both rear tyres match in specification and that the uneven wear patterns noted previously have not been caused by underlying suspension geometry misalignment or trailing arm bushing wear. On the upcoming test drive, listen carefully for any unusual knocking or creaking from the rear suspension over speed humps and rough tarmac, as stepped tyres can sometimes mask or accelerate wear in bushes and dampers. Check that the nearside front headlamp adjustment is functioning correctly across all cabin level settings following its recent rectification, and test all exterior lighting components including the side repeaters, which have previously required minor defect attention. Finally, since regenerative braking systems rely heavily on friction brakes only during heavy deceleration or corrosion-clearing cycles, inspect the brake discs and calipers for excessive surface rust, pitting, or binding caused by infrequent mechanical braking use.