2019 Hyundai Ioniq 1.6L Hybrid electric · SP69 VNE

The 2029 IONIQ currently holds a valid pass certificate issued on 28 July 2026, following a failure on 14 July 2026 that recorded a major defect for rear brake imbalance across axle 2. That imbalance issue was rectified within the same month, allowing the vehicle to pass a subsequent retest with no advisories recorded. Looking at the broader pattern across the DVSA history, the vehicle has passed four of its last six recorded tests cleanly, but the brake-related items have appeared with increasing prominence. The 2022 and 2023 tests flagged rear brake disc wear, the 2024 test combined dangerous rear brake pad wear with disc wear and tyre advisories, and the 2026 test then flagged rear brake imbalance. This trajectory suggests the rear braking system has been the dominant area of concern and would warrant particular scrutiny during any pre-purchase inspection, even though the most recent outcome is a clean pass. With 29,173 miles recorded over a vehicle now in its seventh year, the IONIQ averages around 4,168 miles annually, which is well below the typical mileage for a car of this age. Such low usage suggests the vehicle has either been used predominantly for short urban journeys or has spent extended periods standing unused. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, it carries its own risks including standing corrosion on brake discs and calipers, age-related degradation of brake fluid, coolant and other time-sensitive service items, 12V battery deterioration from intermittent use, and perishing of rubber elements such as tyres, wiper blades and suspension bushes that degrade with calendar age rather than distance. The recurring rear brake disc advisories from 2022, 2024 and the imbalance recorded in 2026 point to a system that has been progressively deteriorating. A prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect the rear brake discs for lipping, corrosion pitting and scoring, paying particular attention to the inner faces which are often missed during visual checks from the wheel face. The calipers, particularly the slider pins, need to be checked for free operation as binding can lead directly to the imbalance defect recorded. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or scraping from the rear under braking, feel for any pull to one side under light pedal pressure, and watch for any vibration or shudder through the pedal. Given the 2024 dangerous rear brake pad reading, it is reasonable to assume the pads and possibly discs have been replaced since, so verify the component age and ask for the invoice. The rear brake hydraulic system should also be examined for any signs of fluid leaks from the caliper seals or flexible hoses. Beyond the brake system, the tyre advisories from 2023 and 2024 concerning perishing, cracking and edge wear suggest careful attention is required to the current tyres. Tyres fitted to a low-mileage vehicle of this age are often the originals or early replacements and may now exhibit sidewall cracking from age exposure regardless of tread depth. Inspect all four tyres closely for hairline cracks in the sidewall rubber, check the DOT date codes to confirm they are within a sensible age window, and examine the front pair for uneven inner or outer wear which would suggest worn suspension components or incorrect alignment. With low annual mileage it is highly likely the brake fluid has not been changed within the typical two-year service interval, so confirm when this was last carried out and budget for replacement if there is no documentary evidence. The 12V battery should be tested for state of charge and cranking performance, the coolant checked for condition and age, and the underside examined for any signs of corrosion that may have developed during periods of standing. A thorough service history verification including confirmation of regular annual checks despite the low mileage will be essential to ensure this vehicle has been properly maintained through periods of inactivity.