2018 Hyundai Ioniq 1.6L Hybrid electric · EY18 HZV

The latest MOT test conducted on 6 August 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle is currently in a roadworthy state. The maintenance trend appears stable, as the most recent two annual inspections have been completely clean following a period in 2024 where the vehicle exhibited signs of neglect regarding tyre maintenance and brake component functionality. The absence of advisories in the most recent tests suggests that the previous issues with binding brakes and tyre condition were successfully rectified, reflecting a positive shift toward proactive upkeep. With a recorded mileage of 165,423 miles over eight years, the vehicle has been subjected to intensive use, averaging approximately 20,678 miles per annum. This high-mileage profile is typical of motorway-heavy usage, which is generally less taxing on the drivetrain than short-trip urban driving, yet it implies significant wear on high-cycle components. You should expect that major suspension bushings, wheel bearings, and potentially the hybrid battery cooling systems have been under constant load. Given this usage, the vehicle has likely reached a stage where major chassis components may require replacement if they have not been addressed already, so verifying the service history for suspension or steering linkage overhauls is essential. Regarding the specific history of binding service brakes noted in 2024, you must conduct a thorough test drive to ensure the calipers are operating freely. Listen closely for any grinding noises or dragging sensations when coming to a stop, and check for uneven heat dissipation or a burning smell from the wheels after a drive, which would indicate a caliper piston failing to retract properly. Furthermore, inspect the brake discs for deep scoring or significant corrosion ridges, as high-mileage vehicles often suffer from disc degradation if the regenerative braking system has been the primary method of slowing the car, leading to under-use of the friction brakes and subsequent surface oxidation. Finally, while the tyres have been flagged previously for damage and uneven wear, ensure you inspect the current set for consistent tread depth across the entire width of the tyre. Uneven wear on the inner edges, as previously documented, is a common symptom of misaligned suspension geometry, which can be exacerbated by worn track rod ends or control arm bushes. Given the high mileage, listen for any knocking or clonking sounds from the suspension over speed bumps, as this would suggest that the rubber mounts and ball joints are nearing the end of their service life. Ensure the vehicle tracks straight on a flat road and that there is no vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, as this could point to wheel balancing issues or underlying structural fatigue.