2005 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · YM05 ANR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 May 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the front wheel bearing flagged as a major fault on 5 May 2026 was remedied before the final test. Over the preceding six years the vehicle has consistently passed its annual MOTs, with only isolated advisories and a single failure in 2025 relating to lighting and anti‑roll‑bar bushings. This pattern suggests a generally stable maintenance regime, with the owner addressing the one serious bearing issue promptly and the remaining items being largely cosmetic or wear‑related. At 123,603 mi on a 2005 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,900 mi per year, which is well below the typical UK average for a car of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be as significant as high mileage when it comes to component ageing. While the drivetrain and engine are likely to have benefited from the modest wear, components that suffer from calendar ageing – rubber seals, tyres, batteries and brake‑disc corrosion – may be approaching the end of their useful life despite the modest mileage. A prospective buyer should give the near‑side front wheel bearing a thorough road‑test inspection; listen for any low‑frequency growl or roughness when turning the wheel at low speed, and feel for any vibration through the steering column. The anti‑roll‑bar linkage pins and bushes, noted as worn in 2025, should be checked for excessive play or clunking when the car negotiates bumps or during cornering, as progressive wear can lead to chassis‑roll instability. Examine all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking, perishing or any loss of tread uniformity; even if the tread depth appears acceptable, age‑related hardening can cause sudden failure, especially on the rear tyres which were flagged as slightly damaged in the 2025 advisories. Verify that the front position and stop lamps operate correctly and that the lighting circuitry is sound, as these were the cause of the 2025 failure. Given the vehicle’s age and low annual mileage, time‑based maintenance is essential. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for charge hold and possible sulfation, especially if the car has been stored for long periods; a load test at the garage is advisable. Check the condition of the brake discs for surface rust or glazing and ensure the pads are not excessively worn, as standing can cause disc corrosion that leads to uneven pad wear. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, colour and any signs of contamination, and consider a full service change if the last service date is unclear. Finally, look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate deterioration even when mileage is low.