2021 Hyundai Kona Electric · FP71 DFU

The 2021 Hyundai Kona’s latest MOT test on 2026-08-07 resulted in a passing grade, but it included two critical advisories under section 5.2.3 (e) regarding the nearside and offside front inner tyres, each showing wear approaching the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear patterns. This marks a notable deviation from the previous four MOTs, which were all clean, suggesting either recent aggressive driving or a gradual but persistent issue with tyre management. The presence of these advisories indicates that the tyres are nearing the end of their useful life, particularly in terms of tread depth and structural integrity, which could compromise traction, especially in wet or adverse conditions. Without further evidence of tyre rotation or balanced wear, the advisories may reflect uneven loading or alignment problems, warranting immediate attention to prevent premature failure and ensure road safety. The recorded mileage of 34,368 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,874 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This pace does not suggest excessive wear beyond what would be typical for a well-maintained vehicle, but it does imply that the car has been driven regularly rather than left in a stationary state for prolonged periods. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests does not necessarily indicate optimal maintenance—it could also mean that the vehicle has been subjected to consistent, possibly heavy usage, particularly if the advisories on the latest MOT are recent. This might accelerate wear on components such as suspension bushes, brake pads, and internal tyre carcasses, so a thorough inspection of these areas would be prudent to identify any underlying issues. Given the advisories on the latest MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the front tyres, focusing on tread depth, sidewall integrity, and signs of uneven wear or cracking. On a test drive, listen for unusual suspension noises, such as clunks or rattles, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could signal misalignment or steering system issues. Additionally, inspect the front wheels for binding calipers, which may cause brake shudder or uneven braking force, and examine the brake discs for corrosion, warping, or excessive glazing, which could reduce braking efficiency. If the tyres are confirmed to be near the legal limit, consider replacing them promptly to avoid compromising road safety. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and mechanical components. Check for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody, as prolonged idling or infrequent use can accelerate rust formation. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, ensuring it holds a charge and has no signs of corrosion or physical damage, as older batteries may fail unexpectedly. Inspect the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, paying attention to any signs of degradation or contamination, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has a service history, confirm that the manufacturer-recommended service intervals have been adhered to, particularly for items such as timing belt replacement, which is critical for a 2021 model. Finally, consider a professional pre-purchase inspection to assess the internal components, such as the suspension, drivetrain, and electrical systems, to ensure the vehicle is in robust condition for its age and usage profile.