2019 Hyundai Tucson 1.6L Petrol · EX69 SOU

A recurring gearbox oil leak presents the most significant mechanical consideration for this vehicle, having been flagged as an advisory in both the 2023 and 2024 MOT tests. While the 2025 MOT was passed with no defects recorded, the persistence of this advisory across two consecutive testing cycles indicates a long-term seepage that has not been resolved. This pattern of advisories, combined with historical notes regarding tyre perishing in 2022, suggests that while the vehicle meets minimum legal standards, there are specific areas of component wear and fluid containment that require close scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 39,903 miles over a seven-year period equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 5,700 miles. This usage profile is notably low for a vehicle of this age and type, which can imply less frequent mechanical operation. While lower mileage typically suggests less wear on high-friction components like brake pads and clutch assemblies, it can also mean the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Such usage patterns can sometimes lead to the degradation of rubber components, such as the tyre sidewalls and wiper blades noted in previous inspections, or allow minor fluid leaks to develop due to lack of regular thermal cycling. During a physical inspection and test drive, particular attention must be paid to the area around the gearbox to determine if the previously noted oil leak has progressed or remained stable. A buyer should look for evidence of fresh oil residue on the underside of the engine bay or dripping from the transmission casing. On the road, pay close attention to gear engagement smoothness and listen for any unusual whining or grinding noises when changing gears, which could indicate that the leak has impacted internal lubrication levels. Any sudden changes in gear selection or difficulty finding neutral should be treated as a priority concern. Further inspection should focus on the condition of the tyres, specifically looking for any signs of the cracking or perishing that was flagged in 2022. Check the inner and outer edges of the tread for any structural degradation or sidewall cracking that could compromise integrity. Additionally, since wiper blade defects were recorded in 2023 and 2024, ensure the wiper assembly operates smoothly without streaking or skipping, as these are common indicators of rubber degradation in low-use vehicles. Checking the overall tightness of suspension components is also advised to ensure that the low-mileage usage has not resulted in any uneven wear or seized components.