1994 Toyota Celica 2.0L Petrol · L724 HKO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 9 January 2026, was passed but returned a number of advisories covering the secondary bonnet catch, rear tyre condition, front and rear brake disc scoring and the rear shock absorbers. Over the last three years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with major failures recorded in early 2026 (registration‑plate lamp and washer pump) and 2024 (horn and front CV boot). Although the latest test succeeded, the recurrence of oil‑leak advisories, shock absorber oil mist and deteriorating CV boots indicates a maintenance pattern that is holding steady but not improving; the car is being kept road‑legal but several wear items are being deferred. At 178 069 miles on a 2003 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7 700 mi, which sits squarely within the normal usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. The mileage is not excessive for a 23‑year‑old, but it does mean that consumables such as suspension bushings, brake discs, tyre tread and drivetrain joints will be well into the wear phase. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than the result of sudden high‑speed mileage spikes. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear shock absorbers, which have been flagged repeatedly for oil mist and reduced damping. On a test drive feel for any excessive bounce, bottoming‑out or uneven rebound, especially when cornering or braking hard. Inspect the shock bodies for oil stains and check the mounting bushes for play. The front left CV boot was recorded as severely deteriorated in 2023 and the right rear CV joint showed a split boot in 2024; any ingress of dirt can lead to joint failure, so a close visual inspection of both inner and outer CV boots is essential and a replacement should be expected if any cracking or looseness is found. The brake discs are already noted as pitted and scored – listen for a shudder or pulsation under firm braking and examine the disc surface for deep grooves; resurfacing may be insufficient and replacement of both front and rear discs is advisable. Tyre condition also warrants scrutiny: the near‑side rear tyre was described as slightly damaged and the off‑side rear tyre similarly, while the off‑side front tyre was close to the legal limit in 2023. Look for sidewall cracks, uneven wear patterns and tread depth below 1.6 mm, and be prepared to replace all four tyres if any are compromised. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive age‑related inspection should accompany the defect checks. Verify the 12 V battery’s cranking voltage and check for any sulphation or case swelling, as batteries left standing for long periods often lose capacity. Examine the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the exhaust hangers, chassis brackets and brake lines, and ensure that any rust is not compromising structural integrity. Confirm that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are topped up and that the oil leak noted on several MOTs is not emanating from a failing gasket or oil filter housing. Finally, ensure that the secondary bonnet catch operates smoothly, the rear registration‑plate lamp and horn function correctly, and that the washer pump delivers adequate fluid, as these minor items can become safety concerns if ignored. A full service history and recent replacement of wear items would significantly improve confidence in the car’s roadworthiness.