2010 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · YT10 AAZ

The most recent MOT, dated 27 February 2026, was passed but recorded two advisories concerning corrosion of the nearside and off‑side rear coil springs. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has consistently passed its MOT, yet each year has produced new corrosion‑related advisories – rear brake pipe, front brake pipes, rear suspension mounting points and an exhaust repair – indicating a gradual but persistent increase in rust‑related wear rather than a reversal of the trend. While no outright failures have been recorded, the pattern suggests that corrosion is the dominant maintenance issue and that the overall condition is stable only insofar as the defects remain advisory rather than prohibitive. At 100 928 miles the Yaris has accrued roughly 6 300 miles per annum over its sixteen‑year life, a usage rate that sits squarely within the typical UK average. There are no obvious mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity evident from the MOT record, implying a relatively steady pattern of use. Such moderate annual mileage generally means that major wear items such as the timing chain, clutch and gearbox are likely to be within their normal service windows, but the age of the vehicle means that time‑based degradation of rubber and metal components will be as significant as mileage‑based wear. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear coil springs and the associated suspension mounting areas, inspecting for surface rust, pitting or any loss of structural integrity. Any excessive play when applying load to the rear axle, or a distinct clunk or squeak when traversing bumps, could indicate that the corroded springs are weakening or that the mounting brackets are compromised. The brake pipe advisories on both front and rear lines warrant a visual check for surface corrosion, rust flakes, or grease deposits that may conceal leaks; feel for a firm, consistent pedal feel and listen for any hissing or sponginess that could herald a pipe failure. The repaired exhaust section should be examined for signs of rust re‑formation or loose clamps, and a short test‑drive should be used to listen for any unusual exhaust rattle or hissing that would suggest a leak. Given the vehicle’s age, irrespective of mileage, a thorough inspection of age‑related items is essential. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry‑rot or tread separation, as tyres older than six years can deteriorate even if lightly used. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, and the electrolyte level checked if it is a conventional lead‑acid unit, because prolonged standing can cause sulfation. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be inspected for colour change, sediment or moisture, and replaced according to calendar intervals if the service history is incomplete. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any suspension bushings or mounts show no excessive wear, as these are common failure points on a vehicle that has spent considerable time in storage between uses.