2022 Toyota Yaris Design HEV CVT 1.5L Hybrid electric · AC07 PJC

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2022 Toyota Yaris HEV CVT on 2026-09-01 was passed, but it included two significant advisories regarding the nearside and offside front tyres, each showing wear close to the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear patterns consistent with underinflation or excessive side-to-side movement. This is a recurring issue, as the previous MOT in 2025-03-18 showed no defects, indicating a potential maintenance oversight or gradual progression of a problem that may have been overlooked in earlier inspections. The presence of these advisories suggests that the tyre wear is not purely due to normal usage but likely stems from either improper alignment, suspension wear, or prolonged periods of the vehicle being stationary with incorrect tyre positioning. Buyers should be cautious, as tyres nearing legal limits pose safety risks, including reduced traction in adverse conditions and potential blowouts if the wear accelerates further. The recorded mileage of 11,798 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 2,950 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with extended periods of the vehicle being stationary, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion, particularly on critical components such as the brake discs, calipers, and suspension linkages. Additionally, prolonged inactivity may lead to fluid degradation—particularly in the brake and differential fluids—due to separation of water and anti-freeze components, which can compromise braking performance and lubrication integrity. The absence of higher mileage suggests that wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and drivetrain seals may not have progressed significantly, but buyers should still verify that the vehicle has been maintained according to Toyota’s recommended service intervals, as a lack of regular servicing could mask underlying issues. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension and wheel alignment. Visually check for signs of suspension bush wear, such as cracks or excessive play in the control arms, struts, or sway bar links, which could contribute to tyre misalignment. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as this may indicate worn suspension components. Additionally, inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewalls for signs of uneven wear or damage, and ensure the tyres are correctly inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the tyre wear is confirmed to be due to alignment issues, corrective action may be necessary to prevent further wear and potential tyre failure. For the broader physical inspection, focus on the vehicle’s standing condition, as low mileage and extended periods of inactivity can accelerate corrosion on components that remain stationary. Check the brake discs for signs of corrosion, pitting, or binding, which can occur if the wheels have not been rotated or if the calipers have not been fully retracted. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or water separation, and test the brake pedal for firmness and responsiveness; a spongy pedal could indicate air in the system or degraded brake fluid. Verify that the 12V battery is in good condition, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, which may require a deep discharge test or replacement. Finally, since the vehicle is relatively new in terms of calendar age, consider scheduling a service check to confirm that all fluids—including differential, transmission, and coolant—have been replaced according to Toyota’s recommended intervals, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure.