2011 Hyundai Santa FE 2.2L Diesel · SA61 JSV

Recurring failures of front-end drivetrain and suspension components define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, with a trend of deteriorating ball joints and CV boots over the last few years. While the vehicle passed its most recent test on 12 January 2026, this followed a failure just days prior involving a worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint and a split constant velocity boot. The history shows a pattern of these specific components failing or being flagged as advisories repeatedly since 2024, indicating a cycle of wear on the front steering and suspension geometry. The recorded mileage of 109,718 miles is typical for a fifteen-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 7,315 miles per year. However, there is a significant gap in the provided MOT history between September 2017 and December 2023. Such a hiatus in recorded testing obscures the vehicle's roadworthiness for six years and may coincide with periods of standing, which often accelerates the degradation of rubber seals, bushings, and suspension components. Inspection should focus heavily on the front suspension and steering system. Given the history of steering rack leaks in 2024 and repeated ball joint wear, a test drive should be conducted to listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres. Any clicking sounds emanating from the front wheels during tight, full-lock turns would suggest that the constant velocity joints have been compromised by the previously recorded boot failures. Attention must also be paid to the structural integrity of the rear suspension, as corrosion was flagged on the rear suspension arms in 2017. While these were not seriously weakened at the time, the age of the vehicle makes further oxidation likely. Additionally, the current advisory regarding the nearside front tyre sidewall scrub suggests a potential alignment issue or contact with kerbs, which should be verified by inspecting the tyre tread for uneven wear and ensuring there is no pull in the steering under acceleration or braking.