2010 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · WM59 HMJ

A recurring theme of brake and tyre deterioration, combined with a serious fuel leak in the most recent test, defines the mechanical profile of this 2010 Ford Kuga. Across six recorded MOT events, four have resulted in failure, with the 2024 test alone cataloguing dangerously worn front brake pads below 1.5 mm alongside a nearside front tyre below the legal 1.6 mm tread threshold. The pattern has not improved: the 2025 test failed on an offside front tyre tread defect, and the 2026 inspection escalated matters with a fuel pipe leak near the tank and a leaking fuel pump component, both classed as Major defects, plus both rear tyres again below the legal limit. The advisory entries from 2023, which already noted worn brake discs and thinning front pads, suggest this deterioration was building for some time before the components crossed into failure territory. Most concerning is the recurrence of dangerously low rear tread depths in the latest test, indicating that the tyres fitted at the 2024 and 2025 retests may not have been replaced promptly before the 2026 inspection. With recorded mileage marked as unknown across the DVSA history, no firm comparison can be drawn between annual accumulation and the vehicle's sixteen-year age. What can be established is the testing frequency, which is broadly annual from 2021 onwards with no multi-year gaps that would suggest extended lay-up or storage. The vehicle has been presented for testing every year without a recorded absence, meaning mechanical components have been subject to regular use rather than the prolonged static conditions that encourage corrosion in brake discs, seized calipers, and deteriorated fuel lines. That said, the absence of mileage data removes a useful cross-check against wear patterns, particularly for a vehicle of this age where high mileage typically accelerates suspension bush wear, engine oil leaks, and exhaust corrosion. A prospective buyer should therefore obtain the current odometer reading independently and reconcile it against service invoices. Given the brake defects flagged in 2023 and 2024, a physical inspection should focus on the condition of the front brake calipers, sliders, and disc runout, as pitted and scored discs can worsen rapidly if the pads were allowed to run metal-on-metal. On a test drive, listen for any binding or dragging sensation when releasing the accelerator, which can indicate a seizing caliper, and feel for pedal pulsation under firm braking that suggests disc warping. The fuel system failures in the 2026 test warrant close inspection of the underbody, particularly the fuel tank area and pump sealing, where corrosion of metal pipe unions or perished rubber hoses can produce leaks that present both a fire risk and an MOT failure. Smell for any petrol odour from the rear underside when stationary, and inspect the fuel filler area for staining. Suspension condition, although not explicitly flagged, should not be overlooked on a sixteen-year-old vehicle of this age, particularly given the recorded MOT items all relate to consumables rather than structure. Pay attention to knocking or clonking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, control arm bushes, or front strut top mounts. Steering vagueness, uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, or creaking when turning at low speed are all worth noting. Finally, verify that the rear tyres have been replaced to legal depth before any purchase, and confirm that the windscreen wiper system, which failed in both 2024 and 2026, has been properly rectified with new blades or linkage components rather than a temporary fix.