2012 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · AC12 MOL

The most recent MOT inspection on 22 January 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history suggests a period of significant mechanical decline and reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The transition from a dangerous failure in early 2026, involving structural tyre defects and exhaust leaks, to a passing result indicates that critical safety issues were addressed, yet the presence of recurring advisories suggests underlying issues remain unresolved. The history shows a pattern of escalating defects, particularly regarding the braking system and steering components, which indicates that while the vehicle is currently legal, it is entering a phase of increased component fatigue. With a recorded mileage of 108,596 over approximately 14 years, this Toyota Aygo has covered an average of roughly 7,757 miles per year. This level of usage is considered typical for a small city car and suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive motorway mileage, nor has it been left to stand for long periods, which can often lead to seized components. However, the mileage is high enough that wear and tear on consumable items such as suspension bushes, ball joints, and braking hardware is expected. The consistent, moderate usage profile means that mechanical degradation is likely driven by age and standard operational cycles rather than extreme mileage accumulation. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system and steering during a test drive. The MOT history shows a persistent issue with the offside rear service brake binding, an advisory that has appeared across multiple years. This can lead to overheating of the brake assembly, premature pad and disc wear, and a noticeable pull to one side or a scent of burning during deceleration. Furthermore, the recent advisory regarding play in the nearside front steering linkage ball joint is a significant concern. During your test drive, listen for any knocking, clicking, or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel or driving over uneven surfaces, as this indicates worn steering components that will eventually compromise directional stability and handling. The previous failures regarding exhaust leaks and anti-roll bar bushes suggest that the vehicle's underside requires a thorough inspection for corrosion and component integrity. Ensure the exhaust system is checked for any signs of rattling or excessive noise, which could indicate that previous repairs were only superficial. Additionally, given the history of tyre issues including structural lumps and low tread, you should inspect all four tyres for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking, or perishing, which can occur even if tread depth is sufficient. Given the vehicle's age, also verify that the service history includes regular fluid changes, as brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time regardless of mileage, potentially leading to internal corrosion or reduced braking efficiency.