2009 Hyundai I10 1.2L Petrol · CP09 CDV

The 1.25-litre petrol i10 is one of the most economical small cars on UK roads, with a real-world fuel economy figure of roughly 45–50 mpg depending on driving style. Insurance sits in group 4, making this an attractive proposition for younger drivers or as a second car, with annual premiums often below £300 for experienced drivers. Road tax is £35 per year as the car falls into the cheapest band for vehicles registered before 2017.

Routine maintenance is inexpensive thanks to the simplicity of the engine and the availability of pattern parts. A minor service including oil and filter typically costs £80–£120, while a major service with plugs and air filter is around £150–£200. The 1.25 engine is chain-driven rather than cambelt, which removes a significant future cost that affects many small cars of this age. Budget an additional £100–£200 annually for tyres, given that four have been flagged for perishing across the MOT history.

Estimated annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance and routine maintenance, come in at approximately £1,200–£1,400 per year assuming modest mileage. With this particular car averaging just 1,500 miles annually, fuel costs will be minimal — perhaps £300–£400 — but the fixed costs of insurance, tax and storage still apply. Overall this remains one of the most affordable cars to keep on the road in the UK.

Begin with the braking system, given the recurring advisories. The front brake disc was noted as worn and pitted at the most recent test in December 2025, and an offside rear service brake binding issue appeared in both 2023 and 2024. On inspection, check for uneven disc wear, corroded calipers and confirm the handbrake holds on a hill — the 2023 test noted it was 'just within limit'. On a low-mileage car, sticking brakes are often caused by seized caliper sliders rather than pad wear, and a strip-and-grease typically resolves this.

Tyres warrant close attention as cracking and perishing has been flagged at four of the five recorded tests. Inspect the sidewalls for hairline cracks, particularly on cars kept outside, and check the DOT date code — tyres older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread. Also examine the shock absorber bushes referenced in December 2025; slight wear is normal on a 17-year-old car but progressive deterioration points to the suspension needing refresh within a few thousand miles.

Finally, verify the engine management light history. The 2024 failure cited an inoperative MIL, which could indicate anything from a loose fuel cap to a lambda sensor fault. Ask the seller whether diagnostic codes were retrieved and what components were replaced. Also test all stop lamps and the windscreen washer system, both of which failed in 2024. A general underbody inspection is sensible given the wax coating — look for fresh corrosion around the rear axle, sill seams and suspension mounting points.