2016 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · RO16 WJM

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe presents a stable and well-maintained roadworthiness profile. The most recent test on 2026-03-20 at 95,774 miles passed cleanly with zero defects, indicating that any issues flagged during the earlier failed attempt on the same day at 95,772 miles were promptly rectified. That failure, however, revealed five distinct defects, all concentrated at the front axle. Both front tyres were worn close to the legal limit and exhibited edge wear, cracking, and perishing, while a missing wheel fixing on the offside presented a serious safety risk. The fact that these were addressed before the pass test suggests responsive, if reactive, maintenance rather than a pattern of neglect. The mileage accumulation of roughly 9,577 miles per year is entirely typical for a vehicle of this age and does not raise concerns about excessive use or prolonged standing. The record shows consistent annual testing with no gaps, and the mileage progression from 80,595 miles in March 2023 to 95,774 miles in March 2026 reflects steady, predictable usage. The four consecutive clean passes between 2023 and 2025, each recorded at annual intervals, demonstrate a period of reliable upkeep before the tyre and wheel defects emerged this year. Prospective buyers should focus their in-person inspection on the front suspension and wheel assemblies. The simultaneous failure of both front tyres through edge wear and perishing suggests possible alignment issues, worn suspension bushes, or degraded tracking that may not have been corrected alongside the tyre replacements. The missing offside wheel fixing is particularly concerning, as it implies either a prior incident or improper reassembly after unrelated work. A thorough check of front wheel bearings, ball joints, and suspension geometry is advisable, along with verifying that all wheel fixings are present and torqued to specification. The rear axle and braking system have not featured in any advisories, which is a positive sign, though a general underbody inspection for corrosion remains prudent on a ten-year-old vehicle.