2020 Hyundai Tucson 1.6L Petrol · SD20 PWN

A recent trend of front-end wear and steering component failure defines the mechanical history of this vehicle, following several years of clean records. While the most recent test on 26 February 2026 resulted in a pass, the 2025 records show a failure due to excessive play in the offside track rod end and multiple advisories for worn suspension arm bushes and tyres. This indicates a period of accelerated wear on the front suspension and steering linkages that emerged after the vehicle had previously passed its 2023 and 2024 tests without defect. The recorded mileage of 33,463 miles is low for a six-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,577 miles per year. Such a low annual accumulation rate often indicates lighter usage, which can reduce overall drivetrain wear but may contribute to the degradation of rubber components, as evidenced by the 2025 advisory regarding a damaged and perishing nearside rear tyre. The low mileage does not preclude the need for component replacement, as demonstrated by the premature wear of the track rod ends and suspension bushes. During a test drive, specific attention must be paid to the steering precision and suspension stability. Listen for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring, which could indicate that the worn suspension arm bushes or track rod ends have not been fully rectified. Any vague steering feel or slight pull to one side should be noted, as these are common symptoms of the play recorded in the steering linkages during the 2025 inspection. The handbrake system requires a physical check to ensure the lever does not have excessive travel and holds the vehicle securely on an incline, following the advisory from February 2026. Additionally, a close inspection of the tyre treads and sidewalls is necessary to confirm that the tyres worn close to the legal limit and the perishing rubber noted in 2025 have been replaced. Ensure the steering wheel remains centred under braking and acceleration to verify the integrity of the front-end geometry.