2012 Hyundai IX35 1.6L Petrol · EK62 EMV

The most recent DVSA examination on 25 November 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, and this is supported by a prior pass on 24 November 2023. The two failure entries on 29 November 2024 and 24 November 2023 both show no defects listed, suggesting these were likely administrative refusals, abandoned tests, or retests following a category that was subsequently cleared. On the whole, the maintenance trend appears stable, with the vehicle consistently passing its annual roadworthiness examinations over the last three test cycles. The absence of advisories across the recorded history is a positive indicator, although given the age of the vehicle, buyers should not interpret this as evidence of recent mechanical attention; advisories on older vehicles often only surface when wear is visible to the tester, and not all deterioration is detectable at MOT inspection depth. The recorded mileage of 35,887 miles over fourteen years equates to an average of approximately 2,560 miles per year, which is exceptionally low and well below the typical annual usage for a family SUV of this type. Such low annual mileage generally indicates either light private use, a predominantly second-car role, or extended periods of standing between journeys. While low mileage preserves engine and drivetrain life, it brings its own concerns: prolonged standing leads to flat-spotted or perished tyres, oxidised brake discs and seized or binding calipers, drained 12V battery cells, and degradation of time-sensitive fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil through moisture absorption and additive drop-out rather than through active service intervals. Given the clean MOT record and the low-mileage profile, the priority for any prospective buyer is a thorough physical and mechanical inspection rather than a focus on recorded defects. Externally, inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, perishing, or visible dry rot, and check the production date codes on the sidewalls, as a fourteen-year-old vehicle will almost certainly need replacement tyres regardless of remaining tread depth. Examine each brake disc for severe surface corrosion, pitting, or lipping, and verify that the caliper sliders are free to retract rather than binding, which can manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven braking, or hot wheels after short journeys. The 12V battery is highly likely to be well beyond its service life and should be load-tested, while the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil should be considered due for renewal purely on the basis of age, regardless of whether the vehicle has covered a high or low mileage. On a test drive, pay close attention to the suspension, as a vehicle that has stood for long periods is prone to perished bushes, weakened coil springs, and top mount deterioration. Listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and check for any pulling, wandering, or uneven tyre wear patterns on the rears. Ensure the engine starts cleanly from cold, as infrequent use can mask battery weakness and oil-pressure concerns. With fourteen years of age, it is also prudent to inspect the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at mounting brackets and joints, and to verify that the timing chain or belt replacement interval is documented within the service book. Although the MOT history is reassuring, the calendar age of this ix35 demands a conservative approach and a modest budget for likely replacement of tyres, battery, fluids, and possibly suspension components.