2003 Hyundai Terracan: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 2003 Hyundai Terracan?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 2003 Hyundai Terracan than on all cars registered in 2003.

• Wheel bearings4.2× usual
  Hyundai Terracan

  15.9% All 2003 cars

  3.8%

  Failed outright at MOT: 1.1%, against 1.3% of all 2003 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £120–£300 (one bearing) ClickMechanic

  At the viewing: Listen for a hum or growl that changes as you steer at speed.

Common 2003 Hyundai Terracan MOT failures and advisories

The share of 2003 Hyundai Terracan MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Suspension
  46% of testsRough price £120–£400

  At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.

• Brakes
  44% of testsRough price £150–£350

  At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.

• Lights and electrics
  43% of testsRough price £10–£80

  At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.

• Tyres
  21% of testsRough price £70–£150

  At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.

• Oil and fluid leaks
  20% of testsRough price £80–£600

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.

• Rust and bodywork
  17% of testsRough price £150–£1,000

  At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2003 Hyundai Terracan

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the wheel bearings? (Flagged at MOT 4.2× as often on the 2003 Hyundai Terracan as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?