2018 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · LS18 RHX

The most recent MOT carried out on 24 March 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past six years the MOT record has been consistently clean, with the only non‑pass item being a 2022 advisory noting front brake pads approaching the minimum thickness, and a minor nearside windscreen chip in 2021 that did not affect visibility. The absence of any repeat failures or new advisories suggests a stable, if not slightly improving, maintenance trend, implying that any earlier wear items have likely been addressed. At eight years old the Santa Fe has logged 52,821 miles, equating to roughly 6,600 miles per annum. This annual average sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope and does not point to excessive high‑speed or long‑haul wear. There are no evident mileage gaps in the MOT chronology that would hint at prolonged periods of inactivity, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be commensurate with a vehicle of this age and mileage rather than being accelerated by unusually high use. For a prospective buyer the first point of inspection should be the braking system. Although the 2022 advisory about thin front pads has not re‑appeared, it is prudent to verify that the pads have been replaced and that the discs are free of scoring, warping or excessive rust, as these can manifest as a pulsating pedal or squealing under hard braking. On a test drive listen for any front‑end clunk or shudder when applying the brakes, and check that the pedal feels firm without excessive travel, which would indicate healthy caliper operation and fluid condition. Also inspect the tyre tread depth on all four wheels, ensuring a minimum of 1.6 mm, and examine the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related perishing, as tyres older than six years can deteriorate even if the tread appears adequate. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, time‑based maintenance items deserve particular attention. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested to confirm it still holds charge, especially if the car has spent any periods standing idle. Examine the engine bay for any signs of oil, coolant or brake fluid leaks, and consider that these fluids may have degraded in quality if not changed on schedule; a fresh oil change and coolant flush are advisable if service records are incomplete. Finally, review the service book for regular oil, filter and timing‑chain inspections, and look over the suspension for worn bushings, cracked mounts or leaking shock absorbers, which can produce uneven tyre wear, a loose steering feel or audible knocks over bumps. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Santa Fe’s mechanical health and help you gauge any imminent out‑of‑pocket costs.