2017 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · YR67 DFY

The defining mechanical picture across six recorded MOT tests on this 2017 Ford Kuga is one of broadly stable roadworthiness with a persistent, recurring theme centred on the tyres. Five of the six tests have passed cleanly in terms of structural and braking condition, with the most recent pass on 7 March 2026 carrying advisories on all three tyre-related issues that have surfaced historically: a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, alongside slight cracking or perishing on both rear tyres. The fact that these tyre advisories have appeared at multiple tests, and that the 2026 test raised concerns across three tyres at once, suggests this is not an isolated event but a pattern worth addressing promptly. There are no recorded failures, no brake or suspension component advisories beyond a single note on rear brake pad wear in 2025, and no advisories relating to corrosion, structural integrity, exhaust emissions, steering, or fluid leaks, which collectively indicates the underlying mechanical condition has remained within test standards throughout the recorded period. With six tests spanning 2020 through 2026 and a recorded mileage of 71,608 miles, the vehicle has accumulated roughly 7,956 miles annually over its nine-year life, which sits broadly in line with average usage for a car of this age. The testing pattern shows annual tests from 2020 through 2023, a gap during 2024 and 2025 before testing resumed, which is consistent with a vehicle that remained in active use but possibly changed registration or keeper circumstances around the 2024 period, rather than any extended period off the road. The mileage progression implied by the regular annual testing is steady rather than erratic, meaning wear on consumables such as brake discs and pads, tyres, and suspension components should be proportionate to the distance covered rather than concentrated from heavy use. The absence of any advisories relating to exhaust emissions, driveshaft boots, engine mounting condition, or oil leaks across all six tests is a positive indicator for a diesel or petrol SUV of this age and mileage bracket. For a prospective buyer, the priority areas for physical inspection should mirror the advisories that have actually appeared on this record. The recurring tyre issues warrant a close walk-around at the test drive: check the nearside front tread depth across its full width, paying particular attention to whether wear is uneven across the tread face, which can point to a tracking misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or a failing top mount rather than simple age-related wear. Inspect both rear tyres for sidewall cracking, perishing, or any bulges, and be aware that tyres manufactured some years ago can harden and crack regardless of tread depth. On the road, listen for any rhythmic thumping from the front wheels, which would suggest a deformed tyre carcass, and feel for vibration through the steering wheel that intensifies at speed. Given the 2025 advisory on rear brake pads wearing thin, it is worth inspecting pad thickness through the wheel spokes and checking the rear brake discs for lipping or scoring, as worn pads left unaddressed typically lead to accelerated disc wear. The test drive should include firm pedal applications from around 40 mph to check for any pulling to one side, which could indicate a binding rear caliper, and several progressive stops to feel for judder through the pedal or steering, suggestive of warped discs. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough physical examination should cover the areas that commonly affect a Kuga of this mileage and age but have not yet surfaced in the MOT record. Inspect the underside, paying particular attention to the rear subframe mounting areas, suspension arms, and brake pipes for any surface corrosion, as these are known weak points on Kugas of this generation. With no advisories on coil springs or shock absorbers recorded, bounce each corner firmly by hand and listen for clonks over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn strut top mounts, drop links, or anti-roll bar bushes. Check the condition of the alloy wheels for kerb damage, which can indicate harsh urban use, and examine the exhaust system from the rear silencer forwards for any blueing, rust perforations, or hanging components. Finally, given that this is a 2017 model now approaching its tenth year, a compression test or at minimum an engine diagnostic scan would be prudent to confirm internal engine health, as MOT records cannot verify mechanical condition beyond the specific items tested on the day.