2018 Hyundai Tucson 1.6L Petrol · LB18 COU

The most recent MOT on 21 April 2026 was a pass, with the only recorded comment being an advisory that the vehicle’s internal headlight adjuster has been altered and must be re‑checked. Over the six‑year MOT record the car has consistently passed without any recorded failures, and the only recurring notes are the headlight adjuster advisory (2024 and 2026) and a one‑off tyre perishing advisory in 2023. This pattern indicates a generally stable maintenance regime, with no deterioration in safety‑critical systems, though the repeated headlight comment suggests the alignment of the headlamp aim may not have been fully resolved. At eight years old the Tucson has logged 52,584 miles, equating to roughly 6,600 miles per annum. This is well below the UK average of around 10‑12 000 miles per year for a vehicle of this age, implying relatively light usage or periods of prolonged storage. Low annual mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and transmission components, but it can also mean that rubber components such as tyres, hoses and seals have aged more than they have been exercised, and that the battery may have spent extended periods at low state of charge, which can affect its capacity. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the front tyres that were flagged as “slightly damaged/cracking or perishing” in the 2023 MOT. Examine the tread depth, sidewall integrity and look for any dry‑rot, cracks or bulges that could have progressed over the intervening three years. On a test drive listen for any thudding or vibration that may indicate uneven wear, and feel for a loose steering feel that can arise from worn front‑wheel bearings or deteriorated tyre sidewalls. Verify that the headlamp aim is correct by checking the light pattern on a wall at the prescribed distance; mis‑aim can be a symptom of a loose or faulty internal adjuster, and if the beams are off‑centre the system may need recalibration or replacement of the adjuster assembly. Beyond the specific advisories, conduct a comprehensive age‑related inspection. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking even if the tread appears adequate, as rubber perishes after six to ten years regardless of mileage. Check the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – a common issue on vehicles that sit idle. Look over the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of corrosion, cracked rubber or excessive play, and verify that the exhaust system is free of leaks or rust holes. Finally, confirm that the service history shows timely oil, filter and coolant changes, as fluid degradation is time‑based as well as mileage‑based, and request a fluid sample if the records are incomplete. These checks will give you a realistic picture of the Tucson’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.