2016 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · SK66 ADO

The 998cc petrol engine is famously frugal — real-world fuel economy of 50–60 mpg is typical, giving low day-to-day fuel costs ideal for urban use. Road tax is negligible, as the Aygo falls into the cheapest VED bands and costs around £20–£35 per year to tax. Insurance sits in group 4–6 depending on trim, making this one of the cheapest cars to insure on the UK market.

Maintenance costs are equally modest due to the simplicity of the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, though brake work — clearly relevant here — typically costs £150–£300 per axle depending on whether pipes, discs, or calipers need attention. Tyres for an Aygo are inexpensive at around £40–£60 each fitted. Budgeting conservatively for a year of ownership, including fuel, tax, insurance and minor maintenance, the annual running cost should fall in the region of £900–£1,200.

Begin with a thorough inspection of the braking system: lift the vehicle and check the brake pipes along their full length for the corrosion flagged in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Inspect the offside front caliper for the binding noted in 2025 — a seized caliper will often show uneven pad deposition or a hot wheel hub after a short drive. The rear brake imbalance advisory should be investigated by checking the rear drums or calipers, handbrake mechanism, and brake fluid condition.

The tyres deserve close scrutiny — both rear tyres were at the legal limit in 2024 and 2025, and the near-side front tyre was cracking in 2025. Inspect the sidewalls for perishing, particularly given the low mileage which suggests long periods stationary. Check the suspension arms and bushes, as the model's aggregate MOT data shows suspension arm issues are a common failure point across the Aygo range. A knocking clunk over bumps or uneven tyre wear would warrant further investigation.

Finally, examine the headlamps and windscreen wipers — these are the top two MOT failure reasons for the Aygo model overall. Even though this particular car has not failed on these items, they are common weak points and worth checking on any example. Look for moisture inside headlamp units and perished wiper blades, both of which are cheap fixes but common MOT failures.