2018 Hyundai I10 1.2L Petrol · AP67 BEJ

The Hyundai i10’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-04, at just 36,421 miles, shows a stable but inconsistent maintenance record. While the vehicle passed without defects after a minor retest for a near-side stop lamp fault, the preceding history reveals a pattern of neglect that has only partially improved. The 2024 tests—both a failure and a subsequent pass—highlighted critical issues: worn brake pads, pitted front discs, a compromised steering rack gaiter, and severe tyre damage, including a near-side front tyre cut reaching the ply. The parking brake also failed efficiency checks, suggesting either improper adjustment or prolonged disuse. Though the 2023 test was clean, the abrupt accumulation of faults in 2024 indicates a period where basic upkeep was overlooked, particularly in braking and tyre integrity. The latest pass suggests some corrections were made, but the recurring nature of the stop lamp failure implies either repeated oversight or a persistent wiring issue. The vehicle’s mileage progression—jumping from 15,876 miles in June 2023 to 27,493 miles by October 2024, then plateauing at 36,421 miles by October 2025—suggests a period of heavier use followed by reduced activity. The rapid 11,600-mile increase in under a year (2023–2024) is unusual for a car of this age and could imply either intensive driving or extended periods of inactivity between services. The subsequent near-stagnation in mileage (just 8,928 miles in over a year) raises questions about whether the vehicle was stored or driven sporadically, which could accelerate wear in components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers through moisture and corrosion. The low annual average of around 4,553 miles is typical for lightly used cars, but the gaps between tests—particularly the 14-month interval between the 2023 and 2024 failures—are concerning, as they may have allowed minor issues to escalate. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the braking system, given the repeated failures in 2024. The front brake pads were flagged as "wearing thin" in both the failed and passed tests, indicating they may now be at or beyond legal limits. The front discs were described as "pitted or scored," which can lead to uneven braking and increased wear on calipers. The parking brake’s inefficiency warrants testing for cable stretch or drum/disc wear. Tyres remain a critical concern; the near-side front tyre cut reaching the ply is a serious safety risk, and the offside front tyre’s edge wear suggests misalignment or aggressive cornering. The missing steering rack gaiter is particularly alarming, as dirt ingress can compromise hydraulic function and lead to erratic steering or power-assisted failure. Suspension components—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for corrosion or cracking, especially if the car has been stored, as moisture can accelerate deterioration. Exhaust emissions should also be monitored, as the 2024 failure implies either a catalytic converter issue or fuel system inefficiency. Finally, the windscreen’s previous damage, though repaired, should be reassessed for hidden cracks or adhesive failure, as this can compromise visibility.