2016 Hyundai Tucson 1.7L Diesel · VN66 XPC

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT in April 2026 at 78,651 miles, but the historical record reveals a pattern of recurring brake and tyre issues that indicates inconsistent maintenance rather than a stable or improving trend. The December 2025 test at 78,380 miles flagged thin front brake pads, worn front discs, and cuts in both rear tyres, while the December 2024 test at 66,658 miles noted worn front discs. A significant failure occurred in December 2023 at 56,479 miles due to thin rear brake pads, critically worn front tyres on the inner edge, and rear tyres below the legal tread depth. These repeated faults across multiple systems suggest components were either neglected or replaced with substandard parts, as problems resurfaced within one to two years of previous advisories. The recorded mileage shows an average annual rate of approximately 7,865 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the period between the December 2024 and December 2025 tests saw an increase to roughly 11,700 miles, higher than the average, likely accelerating wear on consumables like brakes and tyres. The subsequent four months to the April 2026 test recorded only 271 miles, a sharp reduction in usage that may reflect seasonal storage or a change in ownership pattern. The gaps between tests are consistent with annual intervals, but the high-mileage year combined with the recurring mechanical faults points to periods of intensive use without corresponding preventative maintenance. A buyer must prioritise a thorough in-person inspection of the braking system, specifically the front pads and discs for uneven or excessive wear, and the rear calipers for binding—a condition hinted at by the repeated pad wear advisories. The history of inner-edge tyre wear in 2023 and subsequent sidewall cuts in 2025 strongly suggests underlying suspension misalignment or worn bushes, particularly in the front steering and rear axle components. These should be checked for play or deterioration. Furthermore, the recent fitting of engine and sill covers in the 2026 test may indicate efforts to manage corrosion; inspect all structural panels, especially the sills and underbody, for active rust or previous poorly executed repairs. Verify the current tyre tread depths and sidewall integrity against the 2025 advisories, as cuts can compromise structural integrity even if not yet illegal.