2016 Hyundai I10 1.2L Petrol · RF66 VLR

The 2016 Hyundai i10’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-24 resulted in a failure, with three major defects identified: inadequate parking brake efficiency, insufficient brake lever travel reserve, and excessive binding on the offside rear service brake. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, which had consistently passed without defects or minor advisories over the preceding five years. The failure pattern suggests a deterioration in braking system integrity, potentially linked to wear progression in caliper mechanisms, brake fluid system contamination, or structural issues within the rear brake assembly. The lack of prior major failures in the same category indicates that the current issues may be emerging due to cumulative stress from high mileage and prolonged exposure to operational stresses, rather than sudden mechanical failure. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 107,794 miles over approximately ten years represents an average annual usage of roughly 10,779 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and size. However, the consistent advisories over the past three MOTs—particularly the repeated warnings of near-legal tyre wear and thin brake pads—suggest that the owner has either driven significantly more than average or has not maintained the vehicle’s consumables at optimal intervals. Tyre wear patterns worn on the edges imply uneven load distribution, which could stem from misaligned wheels, suspension wear, or poor alignment. The brake advisories, especially the thin pads, indicate that the braking system has been under significant stress, potentially accelerating wear in the calipers and master cylinder, which could exacerbate the binding issues noted in the latest MOT failure. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate inspection should focus on the braking system. Begin by visually inspecting the rear brake discs and calipers for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive heat discoloration, which may explain the binding observed in the MOT. Listen for any unusual grinding or squeaking noises when applying the brakes, particularly on the offside rear, as these could indicate worn pads or seized calipers. Check for brake fluid leaks under the vehicle, as contamination from moisture or air can compromise braking efficiency. Additionally, verify that the parking brake is fully disengaged when the vehicle is stationary, as the recent failure highlights potential issues with the hydraulic or mechanical linkage. Beyond the brakes, the tyre advisories warrant thorough examination. Measure the remaining tread depth on all tyres, ensuring they are well below the legal minimum to avoid roadworthiness issues. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and lead to blowouts, especially in older vehicles. Given the vehicle’s age and the high mileage, check the suspension components for signs of wear, such as cracked or seized suspension bushes, which can contribute to uneven tyre wear and handling issues. Finally, address the brake system deficiencies promptly by replacing worn brake pads, ensuring proper disc and caliper alignment, and servicing the brake fluid system to remove contaminants. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, also check for corrosion on brake components, particularly on the offside rear, where the latest failure was noted.