2018 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · YN18 RCF

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 April 2026 resulted in an initial Dangerous failure due to the offside front brake pad having worn to below 1.5 mm, accompanied by Major defects recorded against both the offside and nearside front brake discs, which were deemed significantly and obviously worn. Following remedial work, the vehicle was re-presented and recorded a Pass on the same date, although a Minor defect was noted for a defective nearside windscreen wiper blade. Reviewing the broader trajectory across the last three years, the MOT record shows a clear worsening trend at the front brake assembly. The 2025 test passed only with advisories on both front brake discs for wear not considered excessive, but by April 2026 those advisories had escalated into Major and Dangerous failures, indicating that the wear progressed beyond acceptable thresholds during the intervening twelve months. This pattern is characteristic of a braking system that has reached the end of its service life and warrants immediate attention from any prospective purchaser. The recorded mileage of 71,561 miles across an eight-year registration equates to an annual average of approximately 8,945 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age in UK service. There are no anomalous gaps in the recorded mileages on the MOT certificates, with each annual test showing incremental accumulation consistent with regular everyday use. This steady pattern of usage is mechanically favourable compared to a low-mileage example that may have stood for prolonged periods, as regular running helps to keep brake calipers free from seizing, prevents moisture accumulation in the engine and exhaust, and maintains 12V battery health. However, the consistent annual mileage also means that consumable components such as brake friction material, tyres, suspension bushes and drive belts have all been subjected to normal wear and tear commensurate with this distance. Given the dangerous brake failure recorded in April 2026, a prospective buyer should obtain documentary evidence from the seller confirming that the front brake pads and both front brake discs have been renewed with appropriate components, and should physically inspect the offside and nearside front wheels to verify the thickness of the new discs using a vernier gauge or by direct examination of the disc edge wear lip. On a test drive, listen carefully for any brake shudder through the steering wheel under firm application, which may indicate disc run-out or uneven bedding-in of the new pads, and observe whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which can suggest a binding caliper or uneven friction material wear. The pedal feel should be firm and progressive without excessive travel, and the handbrake should hold the vehicle securely on an incline. Any persistent grinding or squealing from the front wheels on subsequent light use would suggest incomplete rectification or quality of replacement parts. Beyond the braking system, several age-related items warrant close physical inspection on an eight-year-old Hyundai i20 with this mileage profile. Examine all four tyres closely for sidewall perishing and cracking from age rather than just tread depth, as rubber compounds harden and become prone to failure with calendar age. Lift the bonnet to check the 12V battery for any signs of acid leakage, corrosion on the terminals, or insecure mounting, and verify that the engine starts promptly without sluggish cranking. Inspect the coolant and brake fluid for their replacement dates, as both are time-served fluids that degrade regardless of mileage; brake fluid in particular should be renewed every two years due to its hygroscopic nature. Finally, examine the underbody and suspension components for any signs of standing corrosion on brake calipers, corrosion around the rear axle beam and exhaust mounting brackets, and condition of the front MacPherson strut top mounts and anti-roll bar bushes, all of which are commonly deteriorated items on a vehicle of this age and accumulated use.