2011 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · HN61 TOJ

The Hyundai i20’s most recent MOT test on 2025-12-29 at 79,210 miles passed without any recorded defects, confirming the vehicle remains roadworthy for another year. However, the history reveals an unusual pattern: two consecutive failures on the same test date in 2023 and 2024, both at identical mileages (70,413 and 74,532 miles respectively), followed by immediate retests that passed without issue. This suggests either administrative errors in the initial tests or minor, easily rectifiable issues that were corrected between failures and retests. The absence of defects in the last two passes indicates no persistent mechanical concerns, but the repeated retests warrant scrutiny of components prone to intermittent failures—particularly brakes, suspension alignment, or electrical faults. The recorded mileage of 79,210 miles over 15 years equates to approximately 5,281 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—consistently around 12 months—align with legal MOT intervals, but the lack of mileage progression suggests prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use. There are no red flags in the spacing of tests, but such low mileage may mask underlying wear, as components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers can degrade even without heavy use. The absence of advisories or recurring faults in the MOT records does not negate the need for a thorough inspection, particularly if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise examining the suspension system for worn or perished bushes, particularly at the rear where binding calipers were implied by the retest pattern. The brakes, though not explicitly failed, should be inspected for uneven wear or corrosion on the discs and pads, especially if the vehicle has been stored in damp conditions. Structural integrity—checking for corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe—is critical given the age of the model, as rust can compromise safety-critical elements. Additionally, the electrical system should be tested for intermittent faults, as these often trigger retests without clear mechanical defects. While the MOT record shows no major red flags, these areas demand close attention to avoid overlooking latent issues.