2018 Ford Kuga 1.5L Diesel · YN68 VCG

The most recent DVSA examination on 31 October 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that at the time of test the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements. Reviewing the broader history, the Kuga presents a mixed but ultimately stable picture. Both recorded failures (30 October 2025 and 22 November 2023) show no defects logged, which typically means the vehicle was presented in a condition that could not be assessed under standard categories or was failed on administrative grounds such as documentation or inability to test all components, then resubmitted successfully the following day on 31 October 2025 and on 24 November 2023 respectively. The absence of advisory items across all three passes is a positive indicator, suggesting that no components were nearing the legal failure threshold at the point of test. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable rather than deteriorating, with no recurring component failures or progressive advisories that would hint at systemic neglect. With 66,278 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Kuga averages around 8,285 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a family SUV of this age and not suggestive of either severe heavy-duty use or extended periods of standing. This moderate annual mileage generally means consumable items such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and the clutch (on manual variants) should have worn at a reasonable pace, while major drivetrain components such as the engine and gearbox are unlikely to have suffered extreme wear. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record within recent years, with tests occurring in late 2023, late 2024, and late 2025, which supports the impression of consistent usage. That said, the 2026 annual test is approaching, and prospective buyers should be mindful that any deferred maintenance carried over from the previous ownership will need to be addressed shortly. Given the clean advisory record, there are no specific recurring issues to investigate, but age-and-mileage appropriate due diligence is strongly advised. At eight years old, the original 12V battery is almost certainly due for replacement, particularly if the vehicle has been used for short journeys; a weak battery can produce intermittent electrical faults and starting issues that may not be evident on a brief test drive. Tyres should be inspected closely for age-related perishing or cracking on the sidewalls, which can occur regardless of tread depth on a vehicle of this vintage, and the spare or inflation kit should be checked for serviceability. Brake discs, even those with adequate friction material remaining, are prone to corrosion on the outer edges and inner friction surfaces from moisture exposure, particularly on vehicles parked outside, so listen for any scraping or shuddering under light braking and check for binding calipers by confirming the vehicle rolls freely when handbrake is released. Underneath the vehicle, the Kuga warrants particular attention to its suspension and underbody, as Ford products of this generation can be susceptible to worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and rear coil springs, all of which may produce knocking or clonking noises over uneven surfaces. Test driving should include driving over speed bumps and rough tarmac at low speed to listen for suspension knocks, as well as firm cornering to detect any excessive body roll or knocking from worn bushes. The timing belt or chain service interval should be confirmed against the service book, as the 1.5 EcoBlue and 1.6 TDCi diesel engines fitted to this model have specific cambelt replacement schedules, and a missed service could result in catastrophic engine damage. Finally, given the age of the vehicle, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil should be regarded as time-serviced items irrespective of mileage; verify that the service book or digital history documents these changes, and if in doubt, budget for a full fluid refresh as part of the purchase.