2018 Hyundai Tucson 1.6L Petrol · SC68 WNL

The most recent MOT test passed on 22 December 2025, albeit with a minor defect regarding a severely deteriorated offside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot. Looking at the longitudinal maintenance history, the vehicle shows a relatively stable trend with no major structural or emissions failures, but there is a notable recurrence of CV boot issues. A major failure was recorded in December 2023 for the same component, and the subsequent minor defect in 2025 suggests that either the previous repair was not comprehensive or the component has reached the end of its serviceable life again. With 43,046 miles recorded over eight years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,381 miles per annum. This is considerably lower than the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age and class. While this low mileage suggests reduced wear on the engine, gearbox, and major drivetrain components, it also implies the vehicle may have spent significant periods stationary. Low-usage vehicles are often subject to different mechanical stresses, such as fluid oxidation, battery depletion, and the buildup of corrosion on braking surfaces due to infrequent use and lack of regular heat cycles. You must pay particular attention to the drive shaft assembly. During your test drive, perform several slow-speed turns with the steering wheel at full lock in both directions; listen carefully for any rhythmic clicking or popping sounds, which are classic symptoms of a failing constant velocity joint caused by grit ingress through a perished boot. Furthermore, while the 2022 advisories for brake discs and pads have not appeared in recent tests, you should verify that the braking system is performing optimally. Check for any pedal pulsation or steering wheel shudder during heavy braking, which could indicate warped discs, and ensure there is no sticking or binding of the calipers. Due to the low annual mileage, a thorough inspection of age-related wear is essential. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber can lose its elasticity and integrity over eight years even if the tread depth remains high. Check the service book to confirm that maintenance has been carried out on an annual basis rather than solely based on mileage, as oil and other fluids degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. Finally, inspect the vehicle's underside for signs of corrosion on the suspension bushes and exhaust system, and test the 12V battery's ability to hold a charge, as infrequent driving is a common cause of battery degradation.