2021 Toyota Corolla Icon Tech HEV CVT 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · CF21 XUM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 June 2026, resulted in a pass but included an advisory concerning the off‑side rear tyre, which was noted as slightly damaged, showing cracking or perishing. The two preceding annual tests in July 2025 and July 2024 both passed without any recorded defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance record with no emergent safety failures. The appearance of a tyre advisory this year suggests a developing issue rather than a systemic decline, and it should be addressed promptly to maintain roadworthiness. With a recorded 45,707 miles on a 2021 model, the vehicle averages roughly 9,100 miles per year. This figure sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a five‑year‑old family hatchback and does not point to excessive wear from high‑kilometre operation. There are no conspicuous gaps in the mileage log that would imply long periods of storage, which can sometimes hide corrosion or fluid degradation. The moderate annual mileage means that wear items such as brake pads, suspension bushes and the hybrid battery are likely to be within normal service intervals, provided routine servicing has been observed. The tyre advisory warrants close inspection. Examine the off‑side rear tyre for any visible sidewall cracks, tread separation or bulges, and verify that the tread depth remains above the legal minimum of 1.6 mm, though a depth of 3 mm or more is preferable for a hybrid that may be driven in stop‑start urban conditions. During a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that could indicate uneven wear or a developing belt delamination, and feel for a pull to one side which might suggest mis‑alignment. If the tyre shows significant perishing, replacement is advisable before the next MOT, and a wheel balance and alignment check should follow to prevent premature wear on the opposite rear tyre and on the front suspension components. Beyond the tyre issue, a five‑year‑old hybrid should be examined for age‑related items. Inspect the 12‑volt battery terminals for corrosion and test the state of charge, as a weak auxiliary battery can affect electronic systems. Verify that the high‑voltage hybrid battery has had its scheduled service, and look for any dashboard warnings related to battery health. Check the brake discs for surface rust or scoring, especially if the car has been stationary for extended periods, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Examine the suspension for any cracked or worn rubber bushings, and confirm that the coil springs show no signs of sagging. Finally, confirm that all fluid levels—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer—are at the correct specifications and that the service book contains stamps for interval changes, as calendar‑based degradation can be as critical as mileage‑driven wear.