2016 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · LP16 VTA

The Hyundai Santa Fe’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-21 confirmed the vehicle as roadworthy at 64,586 miles, though it failed the preceding test just five days earlier at 64,547 miles. This abrupt failure—with no recorded defects—suggests either a last-minute mechanical issue or a procedural oversight in the test. The preceding MOT history from 2024 and 2023 shows consistent passes without advisories, indicating no obvious recurring faults. However, the lack of defects in any test does not preclude underlying issues, particularly in high-wear components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers, which often fail intermittently without MOT flags until they reach critical failure points. The recorded mileage of 64,586 miles over ten years aligns with typical usage patterns for this model, averaging around 6,459 miles annually. There are no significant gaps in service intervals visible in this MOT record, though the abrupt failure in late 2025 warrants scrutiny. The 3,088 miles covered between the 2024 and 2025 tests suggests moderate usage, but the absence of advisories in prior passes means no prior warnings of impending failure were issued. This could imply either diligent maintenance or deferred attention to consumables like brake pads, tyres, or wiper blades. Given the lack of MOT advisories, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components—particularly rear suspension bushes and coil springs—due to their propensity for gradual degradation. The brakes, while not flagged, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle was driven hard before the 2025 failure. Tyre tread depth and lateral wear patterns must also be examined, as failing twice on tread suggests basic upkeep may have been overlooked. Finally, assess the underbody for corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and sills, as structural integrity degrades more rapidly than visible wear might indicate. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound.