2010 Hyundai IX35 2.0L Diesel · VE10 XRW

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 January 2026, was passed with only a minor defect noted on the off‑side rear reflector. Compared with the preceding two‑year window the vehicle’s condition appears to have stabilised; a failure recorded in November 2024 for dangerously thin rear brake pads, a severely worn rear tyre and the same reflector issue was followed by a series of advisories in December 2024 and a clean pass in early 2026, indicating that the critical brake wear and tyre deficiency were likely remedied and the vehicle is now meeting the minimum safety standards. At 141,305 miles on a 2010 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8,800 miles per year, which sits squarely within the normal usage envelope for a family SUV of this age. There are no obvious periods of prolonged inactivity evident from the MOT record, suggesting the car has been driven consistently rather than stored for long stretches. This moderate utilisation means wear on major components such as the engine, transmission and suspension will be progressive rather than accelerated, but consumables – brakes, tyres and bushings – will be approaching the latter stages of their service life given the sixteen‑year age. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the braking system. Verify that the front and rear pads have been replaced since the 2024 failure; a visual inspection should show pad thickness well above the 1.5 mm danger limit and the discs should be free of deep scoring or excessive rust. On a test drive feel for any pulsation or shudder through the pedal, especially under moderate braking, and listen for squeal that could indicate uneven pad wear or a warped disc. Inspect the rear tyre, focusing on the near‑side sidewall and tread depth; the previous dangerous tread loss must have been addressed, but any uneven wear patterns could point to alignment or suspension issues. The off‑side rear reflector should be examined for cracks or missing glass, as it remains a recorded defect. Beyond the brakes, check the condition of the front track‑rod ball‑joint dust covers and the surrounding suspension bushings for signs of corrosion, cracking or excessive play, which could manifest as clunking when negotiating bumps. Look for any fresh oil seepage around the engine bay, valve cover or oil filter – the 2023 advisory noted a minor leak that may have progressed. Confirm the battery terminals are clean and assess the battery’s cranking performance, as a sixteen‑year‑old vehicle may have an ageing 12 V unit. Finally, request a full service book; verify that oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at appropriate intervals, as calendar‑based fluid degradation can affect engine longevity and braking performance even on a vehicle with relatively modest mileage.