2016 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · RF66 VRJ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-13 resulted in a passing grade with two persistent advisories concerning the nearside and offside rear tyres, each showing wear at the legal limit of 3.0 mm on the edge of the tread, which falls under category 5.2.3(e). This pattern of recurring advisories—particularly the front tyres failing in 2022 and the rear tyres in 2026—suggests a maintenance trend that is neither improving nor worsening dramatically, but rather reflects a consistent, if slightly elevated, rate of tyre wear relative to the vehicle’s age and usage. The absence of any critical failures or structural defects in the intervening years indicates that the core roadworthiness has remained stable, though the tyre advisories warrant closer attention to prevent potential road safety risks, such as hydroplaning or reduced grip in wet conditions. The fact that these advisories have persisted over multiple MOT cycles implies either aggressive driving habits, underinflation, or alignment issues that have not been fully addressed. The recorded mileage of 33,625 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an annual usage rate of around 3,362 miles, which is notably lower than typical for a car of this age and model, where annual mileages often exceed 10,000 miles. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of storage, or a preference for alternative modes of transport, but it also raises concerns about potential underutilisation-related wear. For instance, tyres that are not regularly driven on can develop uneven wear patterns, especially if the vehicle is frequently parked in one position, leading to premature edge wear as observed in the MOT history. Additionally, suspension components, brakes, and fluids may degrade more slowly due to reduced dynamic loading, but this also means that standing corrosion—such as on brake discs, calipers, or suspension linkages—could become more pronounced over time. The low mileage profile should prompt a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing condition, particularly focusing on areas prone to rust, such as the wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake components. Given the recurring tyre advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the tyres, including checking for consistent tread depth across all four wheels, signs of uneven wear, or any visible damage such as cuts or bulges. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the tyres, such as squealing or thumping, which could indicate misalignment or internal tyre damage. The buyer should also verify tyre pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended levels and ensure that the vehicle’s wheel alignment is correct, as misalignment often accelerates edge wear. Beyond tyres, the MOT history does not reveal any other critical issues, but the low annual mileage suggests that the vehicle may have spent significant time stationary, which can exacerbate problems like brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid degradation in the cooling and hydraulic systems. Inspect the brake discs and pads for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, and check for any fluid leaks from the brake master cylinder, coolant reservoir, or power steering reservoir. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for capacity and clean terminals, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain or sulphation. For a vehicle of this age and mileage profile, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the condition of coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for signs of wear, cracking, or excessive play. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension components or damaged bushings. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks, corrosion, or excessive noise, as emissions-related advisories are common in older vehicles. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in the last decade, the buyer should verify the presence of service book stamps for mandatory intervals such as oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and fluid top-ups. Given the low mileage, calendar-based servicing—such as checking and replacing fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be prioritised, as these can degrade over time regardless of usage. If possible, obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to confirm the absence of hidden issues and to address the tyre advisories before purchase.