2013 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · AU63 AAE

The latest MOT test on 2026-08-25 resulted in a failure, with the vehicle displaying both a dangerous failure for the near-side front tyre tread depth (below the legal 1.6mm minimum) and a major failure for the offside front position lamp not functioning. This contrasts sharply with the previous three MOTs, all of which passed without any recorded defects, indicating a concerning deterioration in both tyre condition and lighting system reliability. The presence of repeated advisories for tyre wear close to the legal limit in 2023 and 2024 suggests a pattern of either underinvestment in tyre maintenance or gradual, cumulative wear from regular use. The failure to address these advisories before the latest test may also hint at a lack of proactive servicing, which could exacerbate underlying issues such as uneven tyre wear or suspension misalignment. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 85,505 miles at the time of the latest MOT represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,577 miles, which is within the expected range for a 13-year-old Toyota Yaris given its age and typical ownership patterns. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps—particularly over the past three years—suggests consistent, albeit possibly heavy, usage, which can accelerate wear on critical components like tyres, brakes, suspension, and drivetrain elements. The tyre advisories from previous MOTs, coupled with the dangerous failure in tread depth, imply that the tyres have undergone substantial use, potentially leading to uneven wear patterns, road noise, or hydroplaning risks if the remaining tread is insufficient for wet conditions. The offside position lamp failure may also correlate with prolonged exposure to standing or infrequent use, as lamps can degrade from age or electrical system neglect. Given the recent MOT failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the near-side and offside front tyres for signs of uneven wear, cracks, or separation in the sidewall, which could indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. On a test drive, listen for any clunking noises from the front suspension, which may suggest worn suspension bushes or coil spring damage, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel or uneven tyre wear that could point to misalignment. The offside front position lamp failure warrants immediate attention to the vehicle’s electrical wiring or bulb replacement, as a non-functional lamp poses a serious safety risk during nighttime or low-light driving. Additionally, verify that the brake system is functioning correctly, checking for brake pedal firmness, the absence of pulsation or shuddering, and ensuring no signs of corrosion or binding on the brake discs or calipers, especially given the vehicle’s history of standing. For the broader mechanical health of the vehicle, the buyer should also inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, which can become more pronounced with age and exposure to moisture, particularly in the Yaris’s front-mounted exhaust layout. Check the fluid levels in the engine, transmission, and brake systems, ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, consider a visual inspection of the engine bay for signs of oil leaks, corroded components, or excessive carbon buildup, which may indicate neglected maintenance. Finally, assess the battery’s health by testing its voltage and checking for corrosion on terminals, as a failing battery can lead to electrical system failures, including those affecting the position lamps. If the vehicle has been stored for prolonged periods, it may also be prudent to verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture or sediment, as standing vehicles can suffer from fuel contamination or carburetor issues.