2018 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · YP68 RLY

The 2018 Kia Sportage presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a notably clean bill of health at its most recent MOT on 27 October 2025 at 57,536 miles, where the tester recorded zero defects. This is a significant turnaround from the preceding years, which were characterised by recurring, albeit minor, advisories. The trajectory from flagged brake wear and tyre degradation in 2024 and earlier to a fully clear test in late 2025 suggests a conscientious final owner who addressed accumulated wear items comprehensively. Mileage accumulation is steady and predictable, averaging approximately 7,200 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The record shows a consistent annual test pattern each October, with a notable jump of 15,104 miles between the October 2024 test (42,432 miles) and the October 2025 test (57,536 miles). This represents a sharp increase from the prior years' average of around 6,000 to 6,500 miles annually, indicating the vehicle saw significantly heavier use in its final recorded year, likely involving motorway commuting or long-distance travel. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the front braking system and tyre condition. In the October 2024 test at 42,432 miles, the tester flagged both front brake discs as worn and the front pads as wearing thin. Although the 2025 test passed without comment, implying these components were replaced, verifying the quality and remaining life of these newer parts is prudent. The nearside front tyre was noted as worn on the edge in 2022, a classic indicator of tracking or suspension geometry issues, so checking the inner edge wear pattern on all tyres remains wise. The offside rear tyre was flagged for cracking, perishing, and a cut in both 2022 and 2023, pointing to either a slow puncture, a poor-quality replacement, or prolonged standing. While the 2024 and 2025 tests show no tyre defects, inspecting the sidewalls of the current tyres for age-related perishing is essential, as rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Given the heavier recent mileage use, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion, suspension bush deterioration, and exhaust condition would provide further confidence in the vehicle's structural integrity.