2009 Hyundai I30 1.6L Petrol · EA59 XUR

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 24 July 2025 at 161,340 miles, but the test flagged two minor advisories: a non-functional nearside rear registration plate lamp and light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber. This follows a failed test just three days earlier, which revealed more serious issues including a worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, an inoperative engine MIL, and the same oil misting. The fact that the same shock absorber issue persisted across both tests suggests it was not addressed between failures, indicating a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than improvement. The car is currently roadworthy but carries unresolved mechanical concerns that require attention. The recorded mileage of 161,340 over 17 years equates to an average of 9,500 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests shows a 14,400-mile increase in just one year, suggesting heavier use or possible gaps in testing. The jump from 129,662 miles in June 2023 to 144,116 in June 2024 is unusually steep for a 2009 model and may indicate extended periods of use without regular servicing. The subsequent 17,224-mile increase by July 2025 further confirms consistent, high-mileage operation in recent years, increasing wear on components already flagged in prior tests. A buyer must inspect the front suspension thoroughly, particularly the nearside anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and upper Macpherson strut top bush, both of which have failed twice in the last two years and are critical to handling and safety. The persistent oil misting on the front shock absorber suggests the damping performance is degrading and may soon require replacement. Structural corrosion on both front and rear sub-frames and the rear suspension arm, noted in 2024, should be probed for signs of deep rust or metal fatigue, especially around welds and mounting points. The repeated failure of the engine MIL light points to unresolved emissions or sensor faults that could mask deeper engine or catalytic converter issues. The nearside rear registration lamp and position lamp failures indicate neglected bulb maintenance, which may reflect a broader pattern of minimal upkeep.