2014 Hyundai IX35 2.0L Diesel · EN14 XJP

The most recent MOT test on 18 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, but the inspection history over the last three years shows a clear worsening trend that warrants close attention. The vehicle first passed with no recorded defects in 2021 and 2022, indicating sound mechanical condition at that point. By 2023 the rear trailing arm front bushes were beginning to de-bonding, and this same advisory has now recurred across three consecutive tests, signifying a progressive deterioration of the rear suspension mounting components rather than a one-off observation. A Dangerous failure in May 2025 for all four tyres being below the 1.6mm tread requirement, alongside a fractured offside rear coil spring, represents a serious lapse in maintenance prior to that test, and while a re-test the following day yielded a pass, the underlying coil spring replacement and tyre renewal should be verified by service documentation. The fact that the 2026 test only recorded advisories suggests remedial action was taken, but the persistence of the trailing arm bush de-bonding indicates the rear suspension is still degrading and may soon warrant closer scrutiny. With 114,739 miles recorded on a 2014 vehicle, the annual mileage equates to roughly 9,562 miles per year, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a car of this age. The mileage progression between tests shows steady accumulation rather than long periods of standing or unusually high-intensity use, suggesting the drivetrain and major mechanical assemblies have been worked consistently. However, even at moderate annual mileages, a petrol or diesel Hyundai ix35 of this vintage approaching twelve years of service will experience cumulative fatigue in items such as engine mounts, anti-roll bar links, wishbones, and the dual-clutch or automatic transmission mechatronics, all of which sit beyond the scope of an MOT but are worth investigating through a physical inspection and ideally a diagnostic scan. The recurring advisories regarding the rear trailing arm front bushes de-bonding are the most pressing mechanical concern in this vehicle's history. De-bonding occurs when the rubber separates from its metal inner sleeve or outer casing, progressively allowing unwanted movement in the rear axle location under acceleration, braking, and cornering loads. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension when traversing speed humps, driveway kerbs, or uneven B-roads, and should feel for any vagueness or instability at the rear axle under load. If the de-bonding progresses to excessive movement, the next MOT could downgrade the advisory to a Major or even Dangerous failure, particularly as the bushes are unlikely to improve with further use. Replacement of both rear trailing arm front bushes is a relatively straightforward workshop job but should be costed into any purchase negotiation. The tyre wear pattern flagged in 2024 and again in 2026, with both rear tyres showing heavy wear on the inner edge, is a further concern even though tread depths were acceptable at the latest test. Inner-edge wear on the rear axle is frequently symptomatic of either worn rear suspension bushes altering camber geometry, or of alignment angles being out of specification, and the simultaneous recurrence alongside the bush advisories strongly suggests the suspension condition is the root cause. A four-wheel alignment check and inspection of the rear tyre sidewalls for any cracking or perishing from age should be undertaken, as twelve-year-old tyres can deteriorate structurally even with adequate remaining tread. Additionally, given the vehicle's age, the buyer should verify the timing belt or chain service interval compliance, confirm the 12V battery is in good health as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years, check brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers that may have developed from periods of light use, and ensure all fluid services including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil have been performed on a calendar basis rather than purely mileage intervals.