2012 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · PN62 AAV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 March 2026, resulted in a Pass but was accompanied by a series of advisories covering the front exhaust leak, front‑tyre edge wear, suspension arm bush wear, and corrosion of both front and rear brake pipes. Over the past three years the vehicle has oscillated between Passes and Failures, with the 2025‑03‑08 tests highlighting corrosion of shock absorber casings, coil springs and brake pipes, as well as slight brake‑binding and a non‑functional off‑side headlamp. While the latest test no longer registers a failure, the recurrence of the same corrosion‑related items and suspension wear indicates a maintenance pattern that is broadly stable but still burdened by age‑related deterioration rather than showing a clear improvement. At 63 607 miles the Aygo averages roughly 4 500 miles per annum, well below the typical usage for a fourteen‑year‑old small car. The low annual mileage suggests periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in terms of rubber and seal ageing. Prolonged standing often accelerates tyre side‑wall cracking, battery sulphation and the development of rust on suspension and brake‑line fittings, all of which may not be reflected in the mileage figure alone. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front exhaust system, confirming that any leak is minor and does not allow exhaust gases to enter the cabin; a hissing sound or a faint sulphur smell under acceleration would be indicative of a worsening leak. The inner‑edge wear on the off‑side front tyre points to possible mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes; a test‑drive should reveal any pulling to one side, a clunk when negotiating bumps, or uneven tyre wear patterns. The nearside front suspension arm pin and the off‑side front arm bush have both been flagged as worn – check for play by pushing on the wheel at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions and listening for metallic creaks. Corroded brake pipes, especially those noted as covered in grease, can lead to a spongy pedal feel or fluid leakage; inspect the pipe interiors where accessible and verify that the pedal returns promptly without excessive travel. Front brake pads are reported at 80 % wear with disc surface corrosion, so expect reduced braking efficiency and possible shudder under hard braking; measuring pad thickness and checking for scoring on the discs is advisable. The shock absorbers and rear coil springs show external casing damage and corrosion, which may manifest as a harsh ride, excessive bounce, or uneven tyre wear – a simple bounce test on each corner should reveal any loss of damping. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, time‑based components should be scrutinised irrespective of wear. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as age can render even low‑kilometre tyres unsafe. The 12 V battery, now fourteen years old, is likely approaching the end of its service life; a load test or voltage check will confirm its condition. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced within the recommended intervals – fluid colour and clarity can be a quick visual indicator of neglect. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage and suspension mounting points for any signs of rust or corrosion that may have progressed during periods of inactivity, ensuring that the structural integrity of the chassis and mounting brackets remains sound before committing to purchase.