2018 Hyundai Tucson 1.6L Petrol · RO68 WHF

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Hyundai Tucson occurred on 2025-12-16, resulting in a passing outcome with two advisories: the near-side front tyre is worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, while front brake pads are thinning. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results since 2023, with no failures beyond the tyre-related issues observed in 2022, indicating a stable maintenance profile. The advisories from previous years—particularly the recurring brake pad wear and brake disc thinning—suggest ongoing but controlled friction system degradation, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage. The absence of any dangerous failures or critical defects in the intervening years suggests that while wear is present, the vehicle remains roadworthy under current conditions. The recorded mileage of 49,767 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents an annual average of approximately 6,221 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this make and model, particularly if it has been used for moderate daily commuting or seasonal driving. The mileage does not appear to indicate excessive wear beyond what is typical for its age, though the 2022 MOT failure—where all four tyres exhibited structural tears—could imply either a period of higher-than-average usage or potential underlying issues with tyre storage, handling, or road conditions that accelerated wear. The slight gap between 2021 and 2022 might suggest a period of reduced use, which could have contributed to the tyre perishing advisories from that year, but this is less critical than the structural failures seen in 2022. The overall usage profile does not strongly suggest rapid mechanical degradation, but the tyre history warrants closer scrutiny. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, brakes, and suspension, given the recurring advisories and past failures. The near-side front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge is a red flag—this pattern often indicates uneven wear, which could stem from misalignment, poor wheel balancing, or suspension issues. On a test drive, listen for clunks or rattles from the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as these may signal worn suspension bushes or coil spring damage. The front brake pads being thin and the brake discs showing wear but not excessively suggest that the friction system is approaching the point where pads will need replacing soon. Listen for a grinding noise when applying brakes, which would indicate metal-to-metal contact if pads are too thin, and check for uneven brake disc wear or warping, which could cause a shuddering sensation during braking. Additionally, inspect the rear tyres for similar signs of wear or structural damage, as the 2022 failure highlighted the risk of tyre separation, which is a serious safety concern. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s fluid levels and condition, as age-related degradation can affect performance. Given the vehicle’s age, check the brake fluid for contamination or moisture, which can compromise braking effectiveness, and ensure the coolant is fresh, as old coolant can lead to overheating or corrosion in the water pump. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and mufflers, as rust or damage can lead to emissions issues or reduced efficiency. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, as the Hyundai Tucson typically requires scheduled services such as timing belt replacement (if applicable) and fluid top-ups, and any gaps in servicing could indicate underlying issues. A thorough visual inspection of the undercarriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension components, is also essential, as standing water or poor drainage can accelerate corrosion in these areas.