2013 Hyundai IX35 1.7L Diesel · ST11 ACY

The Hyundai iX35’s most recent MOT tests reveal a concerning pattern of recurring mechanical issues, with the vehicle failing twice in May 2026 despite a clean pass in May 2024. The latest failures—excessive wear on the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint and a fractured nearside front coil spring—demonstrate a worsening trend in critical structural components. These faults are not isolated; the steering rack inner joint play was flagged in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, indicating long-term neglect of suspension and steering integrity. The fractured coil spring is particularly serious, as it compromises ride stability and could escalate into a sudden failure risk. While the most recent test was conducted just two months ago, the repeated failures suggest the vehicle has not received proper attention to its core mechanical systems. The recorded mileage of 95,840 miles over 13 years aligns with typical usage for this age, averaging around 7,372 miles annually. However, the gaps between tests reveal inconsistent maintenance: the vehicle accumulated 13,715 miles between May 2024 and May 2025, followed by another 10,715 miles before the latest failures. This suggests either sporadic driving or delayed servicing, which exacerbates wear on suspension, steering, and suspension components. The absence of any MOT tests between May 2024 and May 2025—despite the vehicle being overdue—implies the owner may have overlooked routine checks or driven the car beyond its safe operational limits. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering systems, given the repeated failures. The fractured coil spring and worn ball joint indicate the need for immediate replacement, while the persistent play in the steering rack inner joint warrants professional assessment for excessive wear or misalignment. The brakes, though not explicitly failed, should be scrutinised for uneven wear or binding calipers, as front suspension issues often correlate with brake performance. Additionally, check for corrosion at wheel arches, subframe, and suspension mounts, as rust can accelerate structural degradation. Given the history, the vehicle’s long-term reliability hinges on whether these faults have been addressed or merely masked with temporary fixes.