2015 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · WD64 OAM

The 2015 Hyundai i20’s latest MOT test on 2026-01-13 was passed without any recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a failed inspection in 2022. While the vehicle has not encountered major issues since then, the presence of persistent advisories—particularly concerning brake wear and tyre condition—suggests a maintenance trend that has not fully resolved. The recurring brake disc pitting and nearside front tyre wear close to the legal limit indicate ongoing mechanical stress, likely due to prolonged brake system usage or suboptimal driving habits. The 2022 failure, which included critical failures in the side repeaters and washer system, highlights a pattern of intermittent issues that may have been addressed but not fully eradicated, warranting careful scrutiny of the vehicle’s reliability before purchase. The vehicle’s mileage of 115,265 miles over roughly 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,479 miles per annum, which is consistent with its age and typical driving conditions in the UK. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor unusually low for a 10-year-old car, but it does imply that the drivetrain, suspension, and wear-related components have been subjected to sustained use. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular service, which could contribute to the observed wear patterns, particularly in brakes and tyres. However, the lack of a service history or recorded maintenance intervals beyond MOTs means that consumable items like fluids, filters, and timing belt replacements may not have been performed as per manufacturer recommendations. Given the MOT advisories—especially the nearside front tyre wear and brake disc pitting—it is essential for the prospective buyer to conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squeaking noise during braking, or signs of pulsation in the steering wheel, which could indicate warped discs or worn pads. Visually inspect the brake discs for excessive pitting, scoring, or glazing, and check for any signs of oil contamination or fluid leaks around the calipers. The nearside front tyre’s edge wear suggests directional or alignment issues; verify that the vehicle pulls to one side and that the suspension components, including coil springs and shock absorbers, are functioning correctly. Additionally, ensure the tyre tread depth is above the legal minimum and look for signs of uneven wear, which may indicate alignment or camber problems. For the broader vehicle assessment, focus on the following critical areas: the nearside front tyre should be replaced immediately to avoid a repeat MOT failure, as edge wear can compromise traction and safety. The brake system should be serviced within the next 10,000 to 15,000 miles to replace worn pads and inspect the discs for further deterioration. The washer system and side repeaters, which failed in 2022, should be repaired or replaced to maintain compliance with legal requirements. Beyond the MOT advisories, check for any signs of standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust system, as prolonged idling or infrequent use can accelerate rust formation. Inspect the 12V battery for capacity and ensure the charging system is functioning, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure. Finally, verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation, such as dark or contaminated appearance. If the vehicle has been in storage, consider a full fluid top-up and a check for any fluid leaks.