2018 Suzuki Ignis 1.2L Petrol · WM18 ACF

The latest MOT test for this 2018 Suzuki Ignis was conducted on 2026-02-20 and resulted in a passing outcome, though it did reveal several advisories and minor failures that warrant careful consideration. Over the past five years, the vehicle’s MOT history demonstrates a stable maintenance profile, with no failures recorded in the last three tests prior to 2026. However, the advisories from the most recent inspection—particularly the nearside and offside front tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing and the severely deteriorated dust covers on both front suspension arm ball joints—indicate areas of wear that require attention before they escalate into more critical issues. The presence of these advisories suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it has not yet reached a stage of neglect where structural or safety-critical components are compromised, but proactive servicing is advisable to mitigate further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 68,666 miles for a vehicle of this age represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,583 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of its class and typical driving conditions. This usage level does not suggest either excessive wear from high mileage or prolonged idling, which could accelerate corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the fact that the vehicle has accumulated around 68,000 miles over roughly eight years implies that it has seen regular use, particularly in the last two years, where the mileage increased notably. This pattern may have contributed to the observed wear on the suspension ball joints and tyre condition, as higher mileage tends to accelerate the breakdown of rubber components like dust covers and the deterioration of tyre sidewalls over time. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily indicate poor maintenance, but it does mean that consumables and wear items may have reached their serviceable limits sooner than in a lower-mileage vehicle. For a prospective buyer, the most critical inspection points for this Suzuki Ignis should focus on the suspension and tyre systems, given the advisories from the latest MOT. The severely deteriorated dust covers on the front suspension arm ball joints are a clear warning sign that the ball joints themselves may be nearing the end of their serviceable life. On a test drive, listen for signs of excessive play or clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or when the steering is aligned. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for any cracks or separation in the sidewall rubber, as these are often precursors to sudden blowouts. Given the advisories on the tyres, consider replacing them if they are below 3mm of tread depth or show significant signs of cracking, as this could compromise road grip and safety. Beyond these immediate concerns, verify that the front suspension arms and ball joints are securely fastened and that there is no evidence of rust or corrosion around the mounting points, which could lead to structural failure. Beyond the immediate advisories, this vehicle’s age and mileage profile also necessitate a thorough inspection of the braking system, engine components, and fluid condition. Check for signs of corrosion on the brake discs and calipers, particularly on the near and offside sides, as prolonged standing or infrequent use can cause moisture to accumulate and accelerate corrosion. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads or damaged discs, and inspect the brake fluid reservoir for a low or cloudy appearance, as this may signal contamination or fluid degradation. The engine and drivetrain should be examined for leaks around the oil cap, coolant reservoir, and transmission fluid dipstick, with particular attention to the rear axle and differential area for fluid leaks that could signal failing seals. Given the vehicle’s age, also consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness, such as a slow crank or difficulty starting, and inspect the battery terminals for corrosion. Finally, since the vehicle has seen regular use, ensure that the engine oil and transmission fluid have been serviced according to Suzuki’s recommended intervals, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to increased wear if not replaced. A comprehensive service history check would be ideal, but if unavailable, prioritise a full fluid top-up and filter replacement as part of the initial inspection.