2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Premium EV Electric · WN71 XOG

The latest MOT test on 2026-03-26 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive conclusion to a maintenance history that has otherwise remained stable. While the vehicle’s MOT record shows no failures, the presence of recurring tyre wear advisories from 2024 suggests a pattern worth investigating further. These advisories—particularly the nearside and offside rear inner tyres worn close to the legal limit and on the edge—were noted in both October 2024 tests, indicating either aggressive cornering, uneven load distribution, or underlying suspension or alignment issues. The absence of failures in the intervening MOTs may reflect either effective corrective action or a less critical condition, but the advisories should prompt a thorough inspection to rule out deeper mechanical or driving habits contributing to the wear. The recorded mileage of 24,340 miles for a 2021 Ioniq 5 Premium EV represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 4,868 miles, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged stationary use, particularly in urban or commuter settings where vehicles are parked for extended durations, leading to potential issues such as battery degradation, standing corrosion on components, and fluid degradation from lack of circulation. The gap between the 2024 and 2026 MOTs—over 15 months—could also imply significant idle time, which may accelerate wear on internal components like the inverter, battery management systems, or even minor corrosion on electrical connectors. Conversely, if the vehicle has been driven more frequently, the advisories might reflect genuine wear from consistent use rather than idleness. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a detailed inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and alignment. Focus on the rear suspension components, particularly the lower control arms, bushings, and struts, as uneven tyre wear often signals misalignment or worn suspension elements. During a test drive, listen for clunks or rattles in the rear, which may indicate loose or failing suspension bushes or broken coil springs. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns—such as excessive wear on the inner or outer edges—which can point to camber or toe issues. If the wear is confirmed to be related to suspension or alignment, corrective action should be taken promptly to prevent further tyre damage or potential handling instability. For the buyer’s practical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and low recorded mileage, attention should be paid to several key areas. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Check the tread depth and look for irregular wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Next, inspect the battery and electrical systems, as prolonged idleness can lead to battery degradation or reduced performance. Verify the battery’s health by checking for swelling, corrosion on terminals, or unusual electrical resistance, and consider a professional test if the vehicle has been stationary for more than a few months. Additionally, the brake system should be checked for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly if the vehicle has been parked for long periods, as standing can cause moisture to accumulate and lead to rusted brake discs or seized calipers. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full fluid service within the recommended intervals, inspect the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid for discolouration or contamination, as these fluids degrade over time even with low mileage. A comprehensive service history check, including the service book, would also be advisable to confirm any scheduled maintenance or fluid replacements.