2012 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · RF12 UNX

The defining thread running through this Santa Fe's MOT record is a persistent condition affecting the front inner CV joint boots, culminating in a failed test in September 2023 where both sides were recorded as split or insecure to the point of permitting dirt ingress. The preceding test a few days earlier, which also occurred on 11 September 2023, is notable as the car passed, suggesting the splits developed or were identified in a very narrow timeframe. Looking further back, the September 2022 pass had already flagged the nearside front inner CV boot as severely deteriorated at minor defect level, confirming a progressive deterioration that was eventually addressed. Since that September 2023 failure, the vehicle has passed two consecutive tests in September 2024 and September 2025 with no return advisories on the drivetrain, indicating the repair has held. The most recent pass on 18 September 2025 carries three advisories relating to consumable wear rather than structural concerns, suggesting the car is currently in a stable roadworthy state with only routine maintenance items approaching replacement. With 81,341 miles recorded across roughly fourteen years, this Santa Fe has covered approximately 5,810 miles annually, which is considerably below average for a family SUV of this vintage. The MOT history shows consistent year-on-year testing without multi-year gaps, ruling out any extended periods off the road that could have masked wear. Mechanically, this lower-than-average mileage means the engine, transmission and major assemblies have seen comparatively light loading, reducing the likelihood of significant internal wear. However, lower annual mileage can also bring its own considerations, particularly around rubber components, drive belts, coolant hoses ageing and stiffening through heat cycling while covering short distances, and the potential for brakes to develop surface corrosion from infrequent sustained use rather than wear from mileage accumulation. The advisories on the most recent test, particularly the brake pads wearing thin, are slightly unusual at this mileage level and may indicate that the pads fitted are of a softer compound or that the vehicle is being used in conditions promoting faster wear, such as frequent urban stop-start driving. A prospective buyer should focus on the repair history for the front drivetrain, specifically confirming when and how the CV boots and any joint replacements were carried out. If only the boots were replaced rather than the complete drive shaft or joint assembly, it is worth asking whether the joints themselves were inspected for wear from grit contamination before the new boots were fitted. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clicking, knocking or vibration from the front wheels particularly when turning at low speed, which would suggest CV joint damage has already occurred. Also pay attention to any vibration through the steering or transmission tunnel at higher speeds, which can indicate worn inner joint assemblies or imbalance following driveshaft work. Check under the vehicle for fresh grease residue around the CV boots or any signs of recent differential or transmission oil leaks that might suggest the repair was more extensive than a simple boot replacement. The September 2025 advisories point to straightforward service items that a diligent pre-purchase inspection should verify. The front brake pads wearing thin should be confirmed by direct measurement of remaining friction material, and the condition of the front brake discs should be checked for lipping, scoring or corrosion pitting given the vehicle's lower mileage. The nearside front tyre and offside rear tyre both being close to the legal limit and worn on the edge suggests the fitment may have been incorrect, the wheel alignment may be out of specification, or there is uneven suspension wear. A four-wheel alignment measurement is advisable, along with a close look at the front suspension bushes, wishbone arms and anti-roll bar drop links for any perishing or play. None of these items represent a structural failure, but taken together they indicate a vehicle that will benefit from a measured service before being considered fully sorted for the next twelve months of motoring.