2016 Hyundai I40 1.7L Diesel · AV66 FMM

The most recent DVSA examination on 6 August 2025 resulted in a PASS, although this should be viewed in the context of an earlier failure on 29 July 2025 which required rectification before re-test. That earlier test recorded two Major defects relating to non-functional nearside and offside front windscreen washers, a Minor stone chip to the windscreen, and a Dangerous failure for an offside front tyre with tread depth below the statutory 1.6mm minimum, alongside advisories for a nearside rear tyre at the legal limit and a TPMS low pressure warning on the nearside rear. The 2023 test also flagged both front tyres worn down to 2mm, rear brake pads wearing thin, and a 2022 test recorded a front tyre worn on the edge. The recurring pattern of edge wear and premature tread loss across multiple axles suggests an underlying geometry or suspension concern rather than isolated tyre ageing, and the brake pad advisory indicates the rear friction material is approaching replacement. Overall the maintenance trend shows a vehicle that is being kept broadly roadworthy but with consumable wear progressing and some underlying chassis issues likely unresolved. The recorded mileage of 147,262 miles over a ten-year working life equates to an annual average of approximately 14,726 miles, which is broadly in line with the UK national average and indicates regular rather than sporadic use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record, with annual tests consistently recorded, and mileage accumulation appears steady rather than clustered, suggesting the vehicle has been a working daily driver throughout its life. At this total mileage, mechanical wear on major drivetrain components, suspension linkages, clutch or automatic transmission internals, and engine ancillaries is expected to be well advanced, and any prospective buyer should weigh the cost of forthcoming major servicing against the residual value of the vehicle. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories across multiple test entries, a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering geometry is strongly advised. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over undulations, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, control arm bushes, or top mount bearings, and pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking or straight-line cruising that would suggest tracking issues or a worn rear beam bush typical of the Hyundai i40. The 2023 rear brake pad advisory should prompt a physical check of pad material remaining and a visual inspection of the rear discs for lipping or corrosion, as standing heat cycling combined with high mileage frequently leads to corroded caliper carriers and binding sliding mechanisms on this model. The TPMS advisory from 2025 also warrants confirmation that all four sensors are functioning and that the system has been properly re-set after any recent tyre change. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and mileage profile of this i40 demands attention to several time and use-based service items that would not necessarily appear on an MOT. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres closely for cracking or perishing of the rubber compound, which is common on a decade-old vehicle regardless of tread depth, and verify the production date code on each tyre. Check the 12V battery for adequate cranking performance and hold voltage, as a ten-year-old original unit is well beyond typical service life. The engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if fitted should all be regarded as overdue for renewal due to calendar degradation, and a check for any staining or weeping from cam cover gaskets, power steering hoses, and the turbo oil feed lines if the diesel variant is fitted would be prudent. Finally, confirm that the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed according to manufacturer schedule, and verify a complete main dealer or specialist service history to substantiate the high recorded mileage.