2011 Hyundai I20 1.4L Petrol · CV61 LXR

The most recent MOT test for this 2011 Hyundai i20 occurred on 2025-11-26, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring mechanical issues, particularly in the near-side front suspension and steering components, which have led to two major failures in the last two years. The 2025-11-24 failure highlighted excessive play in the near-side front track rod end ball joint—a persistent problem that was also flagged in the 2023-11-24 test—while the 2024-11-27 advisory noted progressive corrosion on the offside front brake pipe and potential looseness in the steering rack inner joints. These recurring defects suggest a lack of consistent maintenance or wear beyond typical expectations for its age, warranting careful inspection before purchase to avoid costly future repairs. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 119,339 miles over approximately 15 years represents an average annual usage of around 7,956 miles, which is on the higher end for a car of this age and model year. While this usage rate is not inherently problematic, it indicates significant exposure to wear on critical components such as the suspension, steering system, and braking assembly. The gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2023 and 2025—could imply periods of either underutilisation or neglect, but the presence of multiple advisories and failures in the intervening years suggests the latter is more likely. Rapid mileage accumulation without corresponding servicing may accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyre compounds, and lubricants, while prolonged standing could exacerbate corrosion in exposed areas like brake pipes and suspension linkages. Given the vehicle’s history of MOT failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection with a focus on the near-side front suspension and steering components. During the test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles in the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, which may indicate further deterioration of the track rod ends or ball joints. Check for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or steering issues, and inspect the front brakes for excessive heat discolouration, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs and linings. Additionally, visually inspect the near-side front suspension arm and track rod end for any signs of excessive play or deformation, and verify that the steering wheel does not exhibit excessive resistance or vibration, which may point to worn steering rack components. If the steering feels loose or spongy, this could correlate with the 2024 advisory regarding play in the inner joints. For the Hyundai i20’s age and mileage, the buyer should also perform a series of practical checks beyond the MOT history. Given its age, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals or a sluggish cranking response, as older batteries can fail without warning. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or structural integrity, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipes, as corrosion can compromise emissions performance. Verify that all fluids—brake, coolant, and engine oil—are topped up and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Lastly, ensure the service book is up to date, particularly for the suspension and steering components, as the vehicle’s history suggests these areas require attention. If the service records are incomplete, consider arranging a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection to confirm the absence of hidden issues.