2016 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · EX66 UPE

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 September 2025, was passed but recorded three advisories concerning slight damage or cracking to the outer sidewalls of all four tyres. No formal failures have been recorded in any of the seven annual tests, indicating a consistently acceptable mechanical condition and a maintenance trend that is stable rather than deteriorating. The absence of any recurring defects or safety‑critical failures suggests that the vehicle has been kept in a road‑worthy state, with the only notable issue being the age‑related condition of the rubber. With a recorded 28 181 miles on a 2016 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 2 800 miles per year, which is well below the UK average of around 7‑10 000 miles. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be as much a concern as high mileage because components may suffer from lack of operation. In particular, rubber components, brake discs and calipers, and the battery can deteriorate through calendar ageing even when the car is not driven frequently. There is no evidence of any sudden spikes in mileage that would suggest aggressive short‑term use, so the wear profile is likely to be dominated by time rather than distance. Prospective buyers should give the tyre condition the highest priority. Examine the tread depth on all four tyres, looking for uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven loading. Sidewall cracking, especially the “slight damage” noted in the MOT advisory, can progress rapidly and may lead to a tyre failure under load; consider replacing the tyres if the sidewalls show any visible fissures, dry rot, or if the tread is below 3 mm. While the car may still be road‑legal, a fresh set of tyres will restore full grip and eliminate the risk of a blow‑out, particularly in wet or winter conditions. Beyond the tyres, inspect the battery for sulphation and ensure it holds a charge above 12.6 V after a short idle; a battery older than ten years often needs replacement even if it still powers the vehicle. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and verify that the pads have sufficient material; any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes at speed can be a sign of warped discs or uneven pad wear. Examine the suspension for any looseness in the control arm bushings, worn coil springs or leaking shock absorbers, and listen for clunks or squeaks over bumps during a test drive. Finally, confirm that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are at the correct level and appear clear; fluids degrade with time and should be refreshed at least every two years regardless of mileage. A thorough visual inspection of the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and chassis rails, will also reveal whether prolonged standing has begun to affect structural integrity.