2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric · CF71 ENE

The latest MOT test for this 2021 Hyundai Ioniq, conducted on 2026-05-23, returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, marking a positive turnaround from its previous history. While the vehicle’s most recent MOT is unblemished, the earlier failure in December 2025—where a continuous leak from the central front fluid reservoir was deemed dangerous—suggests a persistent issue with the hydraulic or brake system, likely the front master cylinder or associated seals. This failure highlights a critical flaw in the vehicle’s braking subsystem, which should be thoroughly investigated before purchase, as fluid leaks can lead to brake fluid contamination, reduced hydraulic pressure, and compromised stopping performance. The subsequent MOT passes indicate either a partial repair or a less severe underlying condition, but the buyer must confirm the source and resolution of the leak to avoid recurring problems. The recorded mileage of 104,012 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 20,802 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, as well as on wear items such as tyres and exhaust components. The rapid mileage suggests the vehicle has undergone significant driving conditions, potentially including frequent stops, heavy loads, or rough roads, which can exacerbate wear on the drivetrain, transmission, and suspension. Additionally, the absence of long periods of inactivity could contribute to issues like brake disc corrosion from standing or fluid degradation over time, both of which are critical to address before purchase. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and the recurring tyre advisories and minor defects in the MOT history, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to assess the condition of the suspension, brakes, and tyres. First, examine the front and rear tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, particularly the inner edges noted in the 2023 MOT, which may indicate misalignment, camber issues, or suspension wear. Listen for clunking noises from the suspension during a test drive, which could signal worn suspension bushes, coil springs, or damaged control arm bushings. Inspect the brake system for signs of binding calipers, warped discs, or corrosion, especially around the front brakes where the 2025 failure was recorded; a test drive should include braking tests at various speeds to check for shuddering, sponginess, or uneven braking performance. The rear tyres, which have shown perishing and wear close to legal limits, should be checked for sidewall cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without use. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service history, focusing on the hydraulic system and brake fluid replacement, as the 2025 failure suggests fluid degradation or seal failure. Given the high mileage, consider a check of the 12V battery and starter motor, as prolonged use can lead to electrical system fatigue. The exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate wear in the catalytic converter or exhaust manifold. For the tyres, which have been flagged for wear and perishing, a professional tread depth check and sidewall inspection are essential, as tyres with low tread or cracked sidewalls pose significant safety risks. Finally, if the vehicle has been driven extensively, the engine oil and transmission fluid should be evaluated for contamination or degradation, as high mileage increases the likelihood of these fluids needing replacement or servicing.