2013 Hyundai I40 1.7L Diesel · EX63 KSJ

The Hyundai i40’s most recent MOT test on 19 September 2024 at 99,474 miles passed, though it recorded slight play in the steering column—a minor but persistent issue first noted in the July 2024 failure. This suggests a trend of intermittent steering or suspension concerns rather than a sudden deterioration. The vehicle’s last failure, just two months prior, revealed far more critical defects: both front track rod ends exhibited excessive play, the lower steering column universal joint showed wear, and the fuel tank leaked diesel. While the September test cleared these, the rapid accumulation of faults in a short window implies either deferred maintenance or a history of neglect. The 2023 and 2022 tests, both clean at 83,066 and 76,631 miles respectively, contrast sharply with the 2024 failures, raising questions about whether critical components were overlooked between tests. The mileage progression of roughly 7,652 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests—9,435 miles in a year—is unusually high for a car that had previously passed without issue. The jump from 76,631 to 83,066 miles in 2023 suggests either a period of heavier use or a prolonged period of inactivity before resuming driving. More concerning is the 5,509 miles covered between the July 2024 failure and the September 2024 pass, during which the vehicle was clearly driven despite unresolved steering and suspension faults. This pattern may indicate the owner prioritised passing the test over addressing underlying mechanical issues. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering and suspension components, particularly the front track rod ends and lower steering column universal joint, which failed twice in quick succession. The fuel tank leak, though rectified, warrants verification that the repair was permanent and that no residual corrosion or structural weakness remains. The steering column’s slight play, while not a failure, should be tested for excessive movement or binding, as this could indicate worn bushings or a failing rack-and-pinion system. Given the history of recurring faults, the brakes—especially the rear—should also be scrutinised for binding or uneven wear, as this was not explicitly tested in the latest pass but is a common correlate of suspension issues in this model. Tyres, wiper blades, and headlamp functionality should be checked for basic compliance, though these are typically low-risk after a recent pass.