2016 Hyundai IX20 1.4L Petrol · KT59 MJT

The 2016 Hyundai ix20 most recently underwent MOT testing on 26 July 2026, where it was presented with two dangerous tyre failures and subsequently failed, although it appears a re-test on the same day resulted in a pass once the tyres were addressed. The dangerous defects recorded were tears caused by structural separation on both rear tyres, which represent a serious safety concern as such failures can lead to sudden deflation or loss of vehicle control, particularly under load or during cornering. A brake disc advisory was also noted at the same test for front discs worn but not excessively, which is a common finding on vehicles of this age and mileage. Looking at the broader MOT history, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable maintenance profile, passing cleanly in 2024 on two separate occasions and again in July 2025 without any advisories or defects recorded. The emergence of tyre structural failures and brake disc wear in the 2026 test, having been absent from previous examinations, suggests the vehicle's condition has begun to deteriorate slightly, although the issues are not unexpected given the vehicle's ten-year service life. With recorded mileage of 33,757 miles over a ten-year period, the ix20 has covered approximately 3,376 miles annually, which is considerably below the typical average for a vehicle of this age. This very low annual mileage indicates either limited use, potentially being a second household car, or extended periods of standing between journeys. While low mileage reduces wear to major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it introduces its own set of mechanical concerns related to standing and calendar-based ageing rather than distance-based wear. Given the low usage profile and the vehicle's ten-year age, particular attention should be paid to age-related deterioration rather than simply mileage-related wear. The tyre failures recorded in the most recent MOT, despite the low mileage, are consistent with age-related perishing and sidewall degradation, which is common on low-use vehicles where tyres harden over time even if tread remains. A prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, perishing, or any signs of structural weakness, and should verify when the tyres were manufactured regardless of their tread depth. The brake disc advisory likewise warrants inspection, as discs on low-mileage vehicles often suffer from corrosion and surface pitting from infrequent use rather than wear, and calipers may bind due to lack of regular exercise. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any scraping, grinding, or pulsation through the brake pedal that would indicate disc warp or corrosion, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking. Beyond the items flagged on the MOT, a comprehensive age-based inspection is strongly recommended. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries typically require replacement every five to seven years and this vehicle is at the point where original units will have failed or be severely degraded. All fluid services should be confirmed, including engine coolant, brake fluid (which has a calendar-based change interval of two to three years regardless of mileage due to moisture absorption), and automatic transmission fluid if applicable. The timing belt or chain should be reviewed against Hyundai's recommended replacement schedule, as a ten-year-old vehicle will be approaching or past its initial interval. Finally, examine the underbody, suspension bushes, coil springs, and exhaust system for corrosion, as vehicles kept outside or used sparingly can develop significant standing corrosion, and check for any fluid leaks from the engine, power steering, or braking system that may have developed during long idle periods.