2021 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · LA21 ABN

A pattern of minor component wear is emerging in the recent inspection history, specifically regarding steering and tyre integrity. While the vehicle secured a pass on 02 June 2026, the presence of an advisory for play in the offside track rod end ball joint indicates the beginning of mechanical degradation in the steering linkage. This follows a clean result in 2025 and a previous advisory for a cut in the nearside front tyre in 2024, suggesting that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it is transitioning from a period of no recorded defects into a phase of incremental wear on consumable steering and rubber components. The recorded mileage of 32,815 miles over approximately five years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 6,563 miles. This usage profile is relatively low for a vehicle of this age and class, which typically implies less frequent mechanical stress on the drivetrain and suspension compared to high-mileage counterparts. However, such lower annual mileage can sometimes correlate with shorter trips or periods of limited use, which may affect the condition of various mechanical systems, though the MOT records do not show evidence of long-term stationary periods or significant testing gaps. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering response and front-end stability during a test drive to address the advisory regarding the offside track rod end. Any perceptible vibration through the steering wheel, a wandering sensation where the car fails to track straight, or audible clicking/clunking noises when turning the wheel at low speeds could indicate that the play in the ball joint has progressed beyond the current advisory level. It is also prudent to inspect the front tyres for any further sidewall damage or uneven wear patterns that might suggest underlying alignment issues resulting from the worn steering component. Beyond the steering assembly, the history of a tyre cut in 2024 necessitates a physical inspection of the current tread depth and sidewall integrity on both front tyres. While the 2024 advisory noted the cut was not deep enough to reach the cords, the buyer should check for any new punctures, bulges, or structural irregularities in the rubber. Ensuring the steering geometry is correctly calibrated and that the track rod end is replaced if the play has increased will be essential to maintaining the vehicle's handling characteristics and preventing premature tyre wear.