2010 Hyundai I10 1.2L Petrol · LB10 BAV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 10 January 2026, was passed but returned two advisories – a slight play in the nearside front track‑rod end ball joint and a mild binding of the rear service brake. Earlier in the record the vehicle suffered a failed MOT in December 2023 with several major rear‑brake faults, and an advisory on the off‑side front MacPherson‑strut top mount in January 2022. The progression from a major failure in 2023 to a clean pass in 2026, albeit with minor advisories, indicates that the major defects have likely been remedied and the overall maintenance trend is now stabilising rather than deteriorating. At 56,358 mi the i10 has accumulated an average of roughly 3,500 mi per year over its sixteen‑year life, which is well below the typical usage for a small hatchback. Such low annual mileage suggests the car has spent considerable periods standing, which can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber components, corrosion of brake discs and calipers, and battery capacity loss. There is no evidence of any sudden mileage spikes that would point to heavy short‑term abuse, so wear on wear‑items such as clutch, gearbox and engine bearings is likely to be modest, but time‑related decay must be considered. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the front suspension and steering. The nearside track‑rod end should be checked for excessive play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock position; any clunk or looseness under load could indicate the joint is nearing the end of its service life and will need replacement. The off‑side upper MacPherson‑strut mount, flagged for damage in 2022, should be examined for cracked bushings or loose bolts, as a compromised mount can cause noisy steering, uneven tyre wear and reduced ride quality. The rear service brake binding noted in the latest advisory, together with the earlier rear‑brake imbalance and disc pitting, warrants a thorough brake inspection – look for uneven disc thickness, scoring, or rust on the caliper pistons, and listen for a pulsating or dragging sensation when applying the rear brakes during a test drive. Any brake shudder, especially on the nearside rear wheel, should be taken as a sign that the disc may need resurfacing or replacement and the caliper may require cleaning or rebuild. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, time‑based checks are essential. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or tread hardening, regardless of the relatively low wear; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement even if the tread appears adequate. Verify the condition of the front shock‑absorber bushes, which were noted as slightly worn in 2020, by pushing on the wheel at the bottom of its travel and feeling for excessive movement or knocking. Inspect the battery for sulphation and confirm it holds charge, as prolonged periods of inactivity can reduce capacity. Finally, ensure that all service fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, as fluid degradation can occur even when the car is not driven heavily. A full visual inspection of the chassis for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, will help confirm that standing periods have not led to structural corrosion.