2017 Hyundai Tucson 1.7L Diesel · TU51 APR

The Hyundai Tucson’s most recent MOT, conducted just six months ago on 25 November 2025, confirms it remains roadworthy, though the tester noted a loose rear heat shield—a minor but correctable issue that does not compromise structural integrity or safety. The broader trend over the past three tests, however, reveals persistent brake-related concerns. The November 2024 failure highlighted severe rear brake wear, including pitted and scored discs, thin pads, and a defective parking brake mechanism, all of which were repeated—though less critically—in the subsequent retest just six days later. The 2023 failure, while unrelated to brakes, underscored a lack of reserve travel in the handbrake, suggesting either neglect or inconsistent maintenance. The vehicle has not failed for over a year, but the recurring brake faults indicate a pattern of deferred servicing rather than a sudden mechanical failure. The recorded mileage of 57,185 miles over nine years suggests moderate usage, averaging around 6,354 miles annually—a rate consistent with typical light-to-moderate driving. There are no significant gaps in mileage between tests, though the 2024 failure and retest occurred within a week, implying either a rushed correction or a lack of pre-test preparation. The most recent MOT, passed at 57,185 miles, aligns with the vehicle’s age and usage, but the absence of a test in the intervening months between November 2025 and now means no recent verification of critical components. The steady mileage accumulation does not indicate excessive wear, but it also does not guarantee proactive maintenance. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear brake system, particularly the discs and pads, which have shown consistent degradation. The 2024 failures specifically flagged pitting and scoring on the rear discs—a condition that can lead to uneven braking and reduced efficiency—alongside worn pads that may have contributed to the parking brake’s inefficiency. The handbrake’s insufficient reserve travel in 2023 warrants confirmation that it has been properly adjusted since then. Additionally, the loose rear heat shield from the 2025 test should be checked for signs of corrosion or further detachment, as heat shields can deteriorate and compromise exhaust system integrity. Suspension bushes and coil springs, while not directly mentioned in the MOT history, should be examined for wear or cracking, especially given the vehicle’s age and mileage. Rust around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is another critical area to assess, as structural corrosion is often overlooked until it becomes a serious risk.