2018 Hyundai I20 1.4L Petrol · V3 PST

A pattern of tyre perishing is the defining mechanical story of this 2018 Hyundai i20, with the issue escalating across successive MOT tests to the point where the most recent assessment on 2026-08-05 recorded all four tyres as heavily perished and recommended immediate replacement. Two years earlier, the same four tyres were flagged with only slight cracking or perishing, and a year before that the same advisory was raised on all four corners, indicating progressive age-related rubber degradation rather than localised damage. The only other recorded defect, a nearside front wiper failing to clear the windscreen effectively on 2024-08-08, was rectified and the vehicle passed the same day, leaving the tyre condition as the sole ongoing concern. The structural and emissions records are otherwise unblemished, with no brake, suspension, corrosion, or exhaust advisories appearing in any test. Against an eight-year vehicle age, the recorded 7,252 miles equates to roughly 906 miles annually, which is exceptionally low and suggests either very limited regular use or extended periods of stationary storage. Such minimal accumulation reduces wear on friction components like brake discs and pads, drivetrain internals, and suspension bushes, but introduces its own considerations around rubber and polymer components degrading through age rather than use, fluid seals drying out, and the 12V battery suffering from prolonged standing. MOT tests have been conducted annually without significant gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained on the road and presumably in active service throughout its life rather than being off the road for multi-year lay-ups. Given the chronic tyre perishing flagged at every test since 2023, a prospective buyer should budget for a full set of four replacement tyres as an immediate priority, as the rubber on the current items has now reached an advanced state of degradation and would likely fail any subsequent MOT inspection outright rather than simply being advisory. During a test drive, pay particular attention to any pulling or vibration through the steering wheel, which could indicate uneven tyre wear or sidewall integrity issues stemming from the perished rubber, and listen for any squeal or reduced braking response as cold, lightly-used brake components may exhibit surface corrosion on the discs. Additionally, check the age and condition of the 12V battery, inspect all visible rubber components including wiper blades and drive belts for perishing, and verify the freshness of brake fluid and coolant, as low annual mileage means these service items may not have been changed at the intervals typically recommended by time rather than distance. Physically inspect the sidewalls of each tyre for visible cracking, crazing, or brittleness, particularly in the flex zones near the shoulder and bead area, and confirm that the recommended replacement DOT date stamp on the new tyres falls within the last 12 months for maximum service life. Given the vehicle's light usage, also verify the operation of all electrical systems, including infotainment, climate control, and central locking, as low-mileage cars frequently develop latent electrical faults from infrequent use, and ensure there are no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard before committing to purchase.