2018 Suzuki Ignis 1.2L Petrol · LT18 UPD

The 2018 Suzuki Ignis currently holds a valid MOT certificate following its most recent test on 12 February 2026, which was recorded as a pass. Reviewing the trajectory of recent examinations, the maintenance profile is broadly stable but exhibits a consistent pattern of repeat advisories that warrant attention. Over the last three consecutive tests (2024, 2025 and 2026), the offside steering rack inner joint has been flagged for play, alongside persistent wear noted on the nearside rear seat belt webbing. The 2024 test additionally documented worn but not yet excessively worn front brake discs, thinning front brake pads, and perished nearside rear tyre rubber, suggesting that several serviceable items were approaching their replacement threshold at that point. While the vehicle has not failed since the dangerous defect recorded on the offside rear seat belt in March 2023, the recurrence of the same items across multiple tests indicates slow but ongoing wear rather than completed rectification. With 43,165 miles accumulated against this 2018 registration, the vehicle has covered an average of approximately 5,396 miles per year, which is notably low for its age. This usage pattern suggests either primarily short-trip urban driving or extended standing phases, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Low annual mileage typically results in less wear on major drivetrain components but frequently accelerates calendar-based degradation in items such as brake discs, which can corrode and cause binding when the vehicle is left stationary, as well as the 12-volt battery, which suffers reduced lifespan from partial state-of-charge cycling. Conversely, if the low figure masks long periods of inactivity followed by sporadic use, the owner should be wary of dried-out rubber seals, perished hoses, and stale brake fluid that absorbs moisture over time regardless of mileage covered. Confirming the MOT-recorded odometer against service book entries and verifying any gaps in the documented mileage will be important in establishing a true picture of how the vehicle has been used. Given the recurring advisories, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering and braking systems. The flagged play in the offside steering rack inner joint is a wear item that progresses gradually and is often symptomatic of failing inner tie rod ends; during a test drive, listen for clunks or knocking from the front end when traversing uneven surfaces or turning at low speed, and check for vagueness in steering response or uneven front tyre wear, particularly on the inside shoulder. With the front brake pads noted as thinning and discs showing wear, the pads are now likely due for replacement and the discs should be measured for remaining thickness and checked for lipping or corrosion pitting; any juddering under braking, a soft or uneven pedal, or a grinding sensation would indicate these components require imminent attention. The nearside rear tyre noted as perished in 2024 will certainly have deteriorated further with age, and all four tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and manufacture date, as rubber degrades chemically with time irrespective of mileage. Beyond the documented advisories, several age-related checks should be completed before purchase. The near-recurring issue with the windscreen wipers failing to clear effectively on the offside, noted as recently as 2023, suggests the wiper linkage or motor may be developing wear and should be physically demonstrated during a pre-purchase viewing. Given the seat belt advisory has persisted across four consecutive tests, the nearside rear belt webbing should be closely inspected for fraying and the offside rear should be verified as a replacement item following its dangerous failure. Given the low mileage, the brake fluid should be considered due for replacement on a calendar basis, typically every two to three years, as moisture absorption reduces its boiling point and can compromise braking performance under sustained use. Finally, verify that the timing chain or belt replacement interval is appropriate to the vehicle's age, check the 12-volt battery under load, and inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, which are common failure areas on low-mileage vehicles that have spent considerable time exposed to road salt and moisture.