2009 Hyundai I20 1.4L Petrol · LR59 JUU

The Hyundai i20 presents a mixed picture on its most recent MOT. The May 2026 pass at 96,899 miles is only a month old, which is reassuringly current, yet the advisory items reveal a vehicle that has been nursed through its tests rather than properly repaired. A deteriorating nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover and slight play in both front top strut mounts sit alongside a persistent oil leak that has appeared on every single test since 2024. The trend is one of slow, cumulative deterioration rather than any sudden decline, but the recurring nature of these advisories suggests previous owners have opted for minimal intervention each year. At roughly 5,700 miles per year, this is a low-mileage car for its age, and the annual mileage progression tells a consistent story. Between July 2023 and July 2024 it covered just 2,541 miles, then jumped to 2,605 miles in the following twelve months, and finally recorded 1,756 miles in the ten months leading to the May 2026 test. There are no alarming gaps or sudden spikes in the odometer, but the very low annual distance raises the question of long periods standing still, which can accelerate rubber perishing and corrosion. The dual test entries on 18 July 2023, a failure followed by a pass on the same day at the same mileage, indicate a quick repair for the offside front position lamp before a retest. Corrosion is the dominant theme across the history. Rear brake pipes have been flagged as corroded on four consecutive tests, with notes about grease or other material covering them, suggesting the corrosion has been visible and known for years. Both rear lower coil spring mounts have appeared as corroded since 2024, and the July 2025 test noted general corrosion to front suspension and braking components along with corroded front suspension arms. A prospective buyer should inspect the underside thoroughly, paying close attention to the rear brake line runs, the coil spring seats, and the front lower arms for any signs of structural weakening rather than surface rust alone. Beyond the corrosion, the front suspension requires close attention. The ball joint dust covers have been perishing or severely deteriorated on three consecutive tests, and the top strut mounts showed play in May 2026. Worn dust covers allow water and grit into the joint, accelerating wear that can lead to a dangerous separation. The oil leak, consistently noted as not excessive since 2024, should be traced to its source, whether that is a gasket, seal, or breather issue. Headlamp lenses have been cloudy or defective across multiple years, which may affect night-time visibility and could indicate UV degradation rather than impact damage. Tyre condition advisories in 2023 further suggest the car may spend extended periods stationary, making a careful inspection of all four tyres for sidewall cracking essential before purchase.