2004 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · DE54 AAV

A pattern of recurring tyre degradation and component wear defines the recent mechanical history of this vehicle, though the most recent test on 02 October 2025 shows a pass with no recorded defects. The records from 2023 and 2024 highlight a persistent issue with tyre perishing and cracking on both the nearside and offside rear tyres, alongside a significant failure in October 2023 involving a deteriorated nearside front brake hose and a non-functional offside side repeater. While the absence of advisories in the latest inspection suggests these specific issues have been addressed, the history shows a trend of addressing consumable and minor electrical components rather than a consistently clean record. The recorded mileage of 74,157 miles over a 22-year lifespan represents an average annual accumulation of approximately 3,371 miles. This is a low usage profile for a vehicle of this age, which can imply less frequent mechanical operation. While low mileage typically suggests reduced wear on the drivetrain and engine internals, it can also correlate with the tyre perishing noted in the MOT history, as rubber compounds often degrade due to age and environmental exposure even when driven infrequently. The low annual mileage means that components like suspension bushes and seals may have been subject to more stationary time than high-mileage counterparts. During a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the braking system and the rear wheel assembly to ensure previous advisories have been fully resolved. Given the 2023 failure of the nearside front brake hose and the subsequent advisory regarding a noisy nearside rear wheel bearing, listen for any rhythmic humming or grinding noises emanating from the rear of the car, which would indicate bearing wear. Additionally, test the brake pedal feel for any sponginess or inconsistent pressure, which could point to issues within the hydraulic lines or calipers, and ensure the vehicle tracks straight under braking to rule out any lingering issues from the previously flagged brake hose deterioration. The recurring advisories regarding tyre cracking and perishing suggest that while the tread depth may be sufficient, the structural integrity of the rubber is a recurring point of concern. Inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres for any signs of fine cracking or bulging, especially in the rear, as these were flagged in multiple consecutive tests. Furthermore, verify that all exterior lighting, specifically the side repeaters that caused a major failure in 2023, is fully operational. A thorough check of the steering response and any unusual knocks or vibrations over uneven surfaces is advised to confirm that the low-mileage usage has not resulted in any seized or hardened suspension components.