2014 KIA Sportage 1.7L Diesel · YG64 NNE

A major front anti‑roll bar linkage ball‑joint failure was recorded in the 2022 MOT, classed as a serious defect, but the subsequent three years of testing (2023‑2026) have shown no further failures and only a minor washer‑fluid insufficiency on the most recent test, indicating that the critical suspension issue was addressed and the vehicle has been roadworthy since then. At 106,703 mi the car averages roughly 8,900 mi per annum over its twelve‑year life, a mileage pattern that sits squarely within normal usage for a family SUV of this age. The MOT history is continuous with annual tests and no significant gaps, suggesting the odometer reading reflects genuine use rather than prolonged storage, which would otherwise raise concerns about component ageing without load. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the front suspension assembly: check the anti‑roll bar linkage and ball joints for any play, clunking noises over bumps, or uneven steering response. Verify the condition of the front brake pads and discs, which were flagged as thin and pitted in 2022; look for reduced pad thickness, scoring on the rotors, or any vibration when applying the brakes. Examine all four tyres for the previously noted inner‑edge wear on the fronts and cracking on the rears, confirming that tread depth is within legal limits and that there are no bulges or sidewall damage. A brief functional check of the windscreen washer system is advisable to ensure the nozzle delivers sufficient fluid, as the 2026 failure was limited to that item. Beyond that, a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection should include a visual survey for corrosion around suspension mounting points, a test‑drive for any steering pull or suspension noises, and a full brake performance assessment, all of which will confirm whether the earlier defects have been fully rectified and the vehicle remains mechanically sound for continued use.