IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Toyota Aygo Mk1

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012 Toyota Aygo Mk1. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

4
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Water Ingress (Boot/Rear)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Leaking rear light seals and high-level brake lights let water into the boot, leaving damp carpets and a musty smell; a known Mk1 weak point on UK cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£200
Warning Signs:

Wet boot carpet, Condensation, Misty lights

What to Inspect:
  • Lift boot carpet and check for water or rust
  • Check the rear light seals and boot rubber for perishing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Door Lock Actuator Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The central locking actuators can seize or fail, preventing doors from locking or unlocking remotely.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£200 per door
Warning Signs:

Door won't lock/unlock with key fob, Manual lock still works, Clicking noise from door

What to Inspect:
  • Test all door locks with the key fob
  • Listen for actuator clicking
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Starter Motor Wear

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The starter motor can wear prematurely, especially on cars used for frequent short urban trips.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£350
Warning Signs:

Slow cranking, Clicking noise when turning key, Car fails to start in cold weather

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for slow cranking or clicking on startup
  • Check battery terminals are tight and clean
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Exhaust Silencer Corrosion

MinorExhaust & Emissions

The rear silencer is prone to rusting through, especially on UK cars exposed to road salt.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

Exhaust rattle or growling noise, Failed MOT for exhaust leak, Visible rust on rear silencer

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear silencer from underneath
  • Listen for exhaust noise at idle
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2012 Toyota Aygo Mk1

  • Check for water in the spare wheel well.
  • Test the clutch for slipping; the original 180mm unit was weak.
  • The 1.0 engine is tough, but the water pump should be checked every 50k miles.
Check a 2012 Toyota Aygo Mk1 by Registration