2008 Toyota Yaris 1.4L Diesel · FL58 AEG

The most recent MOT test on the 2008 Toyota Yaris occurred on 2025-08-28, where it passed with two advisories: both rear coil springs exhibited significant corrosion, and the near-side rear wheel bearing showed slight noise. While this is a positive outcome, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that have escalated in severity over time. The 2025 failure, just two days prior to the passing test, highlighted major defects in both front and rear wheel bearings—offside front bearing had excessive play, and the offside rear bearing was critically worn—alongside a severely worn anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush. These failures underscore a concerning trend of progressive wear in the wheel bearings and suspension components, indicating that the vehicle has not been adequately maintained to prevent cumulative damage. The advisories from previous MOTs, particularly the repeated corrosion of the rear coil springs and the persistent noise in wheel bearings, suggest that the owner has either neglected routine servicing or the vehicle has been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions that accelerate wear. The recorded mileage of 136,255 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 18 years represents an average annual usage of around 7,570 miles, which is within the expected range for this model’s age. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit data on driving patterns or periods of inactivity, but the presence of multiple advisories and failures—especially those related to wheel bearings and suspension—could imply either prolonged standing with standing corrosion or repeated high-stress driving scenarios that accelerate component wear. The suspension and wheel bearing failures are particularly concerning because they often result from prolonged exposure to moisture, lack of lubrication, or excessive load cycles. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the wear rate on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids should also be monitored closely, as the combination of high mileage and potential neglect may have led to accelerated degradation in these areas. Given the recurring MOT advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and wheel bearings. During a test drive, listen for persistent clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when transitioning between bumps or during cornering, as these may indicate failing coil springs or worn suspension arms. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for cracks or perishing, especially on the sidewalls, as this is more likely to occur with age than mileage alone. The wheel bearings should be tested by gently rotating each wheel while the vehicle is stationary—excessive play or grinding noises would confirm the major defects noted in the MOT history. Additionally, visually inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the brake pipes, which was noted in the 2024 MOT, and check for binding calipers or uneven brake disc wear, which could indicate standing corrosion or hydraulic issues. If the buyer suspects standing corrosion, they should also examine the undercarriage for rust around wheel arches, exhaust components, and the chassis, as this can compromise structural integrity over time. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should prioritise time-based servicing of fluids, particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time due to moisture absorption and should be replaced every two years or 40,000 miles, whichever comes first. The 12V battery should be tested for health, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can lead to sulphation or weak terminals, which may not be detected by the MOT but can cause starting issues. The service book should be reviewed for any missing or outdated maintenance records, particularly for suspension components, wheel bearings, and fluid changes, as these are critical areas where the vehicle has failed or shown advisories. If the buyer is concerned about the wear on the wheel bearings and suspension, they may consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the extent of damage and plan for potential repairs, especially if the vehicle is to be driven regularly. Finally, the buyer should be cautious about the corrosion of the rear coil springs, as this could lead to uneven ride quality or even failure if not addressed, and should consider replacing them if they are significantly degraded or if the vehicle exhibits excessive sagging or noise from the rear suspension.