2010 Hyundai IX35 2.0L Diesel · V80 VCX

The most recent MOT test on this 2010 Hyundai ix35, conducted on 1 June 2026, returned a pass with no defects recorded, which on the surface suggests the vehicle is currently roadworthy. However, evaluating the broader maintenance picture reveals a concerning deterioration. The same day, an earlier test on 1 June 2026 resulted in a fail with two dangerous brake pad items at the front, which is a serious safety concern as pads below 1.5mm significantly compromise stopping performance. Major advisories were also raised for excessive wear on both front anti-roll bar ball joints, alongside an advisory noting front brake disc wear, pitting, and scoring. Looking further back, the 2025 test produced a similar cluster of major defects including a perished ball joint dust cover, excessive play in the offside front track rod end, and dangerous tyre conditions with exposed ply or cords. The recurring pattern of front suspension and brake deterioration across consecutive tests indicates a worsening mechanical trend rather than a stable maintenance profile, and any prospective buyer should treat the recent pass with caution given that several advisories and component wear issues were only just addressed. Recorded mileage stands at 71,828 miles across approximately 16 years, equating to a modest annual average of around 4,489 miles. This figure is notably low for the vehicle's age and suggests either limited usage or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage can be a double-edged sword mechanically, as while engine and drivetrain wear may be reduced, prolonged standing often accelerates degradation of rubber and composite components, brake corrosion from lack of use, and fluid deterioration through age rather than mileage. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing from 2021 onwards with steadily accumulating mileage, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular use during the recorded period, which is favourable. Nonetheless, the age of consumables such as brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery should not be assumed serviceable simply because mileage is low. Given the recurring front suspension and brake defects, a prospective buyer should carry out a focused inspection of these systems before purchase. Listen carefully for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar drop links, bushes, or ball joints, all of which are common failure points on a vehicle of this age. On the test drive, pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking, brake shudder through the steering wheel, or a spongy pedal feel, all of which could indicate the recently replaced brake pads are bedding in against worn or corroded discs, or that the calipers may be seizing from infrequent use. Inspect the tyres carefully for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, which often points to suspension geometry issues, and check the sidewalls for age-related perishing and cracking given that tyres over six years old can deteriorate regardless of tread depth. Beyond the specific MOT findings, several age-related checks are essential for a 16-year-old vehicle with low mileage. Verify the production date of the 12V battery, as units older than five years are prone to sudden failure and cold-start issues. Inspect all brake discs for surface rust, which on a low-mileage vehicle can cause juddering until cleared through braking, and check that the calipers are releasing correctly rather than binding, which would generate uneven pad wear and hot spots on the discs. Confirm the service book stamps and ask for evidence of recent brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid changes, as these fluids degrade with time even when mileage is low, and the ix35 is known for timing chain stretch on earlier variants which warrants a cold-start listening check for rattle from the engine bay. Finally, examine the underbody and structural areas for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and wheel arches, which is a known concern for vehicles of this era operating in the UK climate.