2013 Hyundai IX35 1.7L Diesel · FE63 FDV

The most recent MOT on 28 May 2026 was passed, with the only advisory noting that the off‑side rear inner tyre is worn close to the legal limit. Earlier in the series, the vehicle suffered two major failures – a non‑functioning off‑side side repeater and excessive play in the near‑side track‑rod end ball‑joint – and an advisory on thin rear brake pads and high hand‑brake travel. While the latest test shows the car currently meets the statutory requirements, the recurrence of suspension‑joint play, tyre wear and lighting faults indicates that the maintenance trend has been mixed: recent compliance is good, but underlying wear items have persisted and have not been fully rectified. At 86,593 mi after 13 years the average annual mileage is about 6,660 mi, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. This suggests the vehicle has not been subject to extreme high‑speed or high‑load duty, but the pattern of tyre wear, particularly on the off‑side rear, may point to a mild alignment issue or uneven loading rather than excessive mileage alone. The relatively modest annual distance also raises the possibility of periods of prolonged storage, which can exacerbate age‑related degradation of rubber, seals and corrosion‑prone components. A prospective buyer should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for sidewall cracking, tread perishing and uneven wear patterns that could confirm a mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushings. The off‑side rear tyre is already close to the legal minimum tread depth and may need replacement imminently; any indication of a stepped or cupped tread should be taken as a sign of underlying steering or suspension faults. Verify that the near‑side track‑rod end ball‑joint is free of play by checking for a noticeable knock when the wheel is rocked at the 12‑o’clock and 6‑o’clock positions; excessive movement can cause vague steering wander, clunking over bumps and accelerated tyre wear. The off‑side side repeater (turn signal) must be tested for proper operation on both flash and steady modes, as a faulty unit is a safety hazard and a recurring MOT defect. Further age‑related checks are advisable. Inspect the hand‑brake lever for a firm, consistent pull; excessive travel may indicate stretched cables or a binding rear‑brake caliper. Examine the rear brake discs and pads for glazing, scoring or corrosion, especially since thin pads were flagged in 2023 – replacement may be imminent if the discs are near the minimum thickness. Confirm the condition of the battery, coolant, engine oil and brake fluid, all of which degrade over time even with modest mileage; a fluid change schedule should be adhered to if service records are missing. Finally, look for any signs of rust on the chassis, suspension arms and exhaust system, and ensure all suspension bushes and coil springs are intact, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion and lead to binding or uneven ride quality. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of the vehicle’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance outlay.