2003 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · RJ53 ABZ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT tests in February 2026—just five months ago—show a clean pass with no recorded defects, despite the unusual dual entry (one pass, one fail at identical mileage). This suggests the vehicle was either tested twice within the same session or there was a minor administrative anomaly, but no mechanical issues were detected. The preceding MOT in February 2025 also passed without failings, indicating a stable roadworthiness trend over the past year. However, the lack of advisories or faults across all tests means no recurring problems have been formally documented, though this does not preclude hidden wear or deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 93,873 miles over 23 years equates to approximately 4,081 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2024 test at 85,233 miles and the 2025 test at 87,622 miles—just 2,389 miles in a year—implies prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use. Such low annual mileage can lead to accelerated degradation of rubber components (e.g., suspension bushes, seals) and battery corrosion, even if the MOT history appears pristine. The absence of higher mileage intervals also means there’s no evidence of regular servicing or wear patterns that might have been flagged earlier. Given the sparse MOT record, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas that aren’t routinely tested. The suspension—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for stiffness or cracking, as prolonged standing can cause rubber components to dry out. Brake discs and pads, while not failed in tests, may exhibit uneven wear if the vehicle has been driven sporadically. The battery and alternator should be tested for corrosion or voltage output, given the low mileage history. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and sills, warrants scrutiny for corrosion, as rust can develop even in stationary vehicles. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or damage, as emissions tests have not historically flagged issues here.