2016 Hyundai Tucson 1.7L Diesel · RF66 VMR

The most recent DVSA examination on 8 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, although this followed a Fail on the preceding day. The failure was driven by two Major defects relating to the Anti-lock Braking System warning lamp and the Electronic Stability Control warning lamp, both indicating system faults that prevented the supplementary restraint and stability functions from being verified as operational. These warning lamp issues are commonly linked to wheel speed sensor failures, reluctor ring contamination, hydraulic modulator faults, or wiring/connector degradation on the ABS module. The vehicle did pass the following day, suggesting remedial work was carried out to rectify the ABS and ESC faults, but it remains essential to confirm exactly what repair was undertaken and whether any diagnostic trouble codes remain stored or have reappeared. Across the broader MOT history, the 2023 test included a Dangerous failure for an offside front brake pad measuring less than 1.5 mm thick, accompanied by Major defects relating to the parking brake being inoperative on one side and excessive parking brake lever movement indicating incorrect adjustment. Subsequent advisories at the 2024 and 2025 tests for front tyre wear close to legal limit and low rear brake pads respectively indicate an ongoing pattern of consumable wear that the prospective buyer should monitor closely. Recorded mileage stands at 91,597 miles on a ten-year-old vehicle, equating to roughly 9,160 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a family SUV of this age. Mileage progression between tests appears steady and reasonable, with no evidence of prolonged standing periods or unusually rapid accumulation that would raise specific concerns. At this odometer reading, mechanical wear on clutch components, if manual, automatic transmission fluid degradation, dual mass flywheel condition (where applicable), and engine internal wear become increasingly relevant considerations. Routine servicing items such as timing belt or chain verification, coolant renewal, brake fluid replacement every two to three years, and automatic gearbox fluid changes if fitted should be confirmed via the service history, as MOT records alone do not evidence these interval-based maintenance items. The recurring ABS and ESC warning lamp defects warrant particular attention during pre-purchase evaluation. During a test drive, the buyer should ensure both warning lamps illuminate with ignition and extinguish once the vehicle is in motion, confirming no reoccurring fault. A diagnostic scan with a Hyundai-compatible tool such as GDS or a generic OBD reader would verify whether any historical or pending ABS, ESC, or wheel speed sensor codes are stored. Symptoms to listen for include uneven braking response, activation of the ABS or stability control under normal cornering, or illumination of the warning lamps over bumps indicating loose connectors or damaged wiring. The brake-related advisories and prior Dangerous failure mean the front discs and calipers, rear pads, and handbrake mechanism should be physically inspected for pad thickness remaining, disc lipping and surface corrosion, caliper slide pin seizure, and handbrake cable adjustment. Given the age and mileage, age-related degradation should also be assessed regardless of MOT outcome. Tyres fitted for several years may exhibit sidewall perishing or cracking even if tread depth remains adequate, so date codes on the sidewalls should be reviewed. The 12V battery is likely approaching the end of its service life and should be load tested. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and will have absorbed moisture over the years, so a brake fluid moisture test or simple renewal is prudent. Exhaust system mounting rubbers, underfloor corrosion particularly around suspension mounting points and subframes, and drive belt condition should all be physically examined. Finally, verify the full service history with confirmation of timing chain or belt replacement intervals, cooling system and automatic transmission fluid renewals, and any warranty or recall work completed, as this will provide the most reliable indication of how the vehicle has been maintained over its ten-year life.