2009 Toyota Yaris 1.4L Diesel · AF09 UAC

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 November 2025 returned a PASS certificate, although the test carried forward several advisories and one minor defect from a closely preceding failure just one day earlier. That earlier test on 11 November 2025 resulted in a failure due to a fractured nearside front coil spring, which would explain the immediate re-test. Once rectified, the vehicle passed, but the new certificate retains advisories concerning an offside front suspension arm pin or bush with wear, a nearside front track rod end ball joint exhibiting slight play, a severely deteriorated nearside front outer CV joint boot recorded as a minor defect, and corrosion on the rear bumper support bar. The maintenance trend appears broadly stable in terms of road legality, yet the persistence and accumulation of front suspension and steering wear items across consecutive examinations suggests progressive deterioration of the front running gear rather than a one-off concern. With 224,947 miles recorded on a vehicle of approximately seventeen years of age, the Yaris has been covering on average 13,232 miles annually, which is notably high for its class and age. There are no significant gaps in the recorded test history within the supplied data, and the mileage between the 2023 and 2025 tests indicates consistent and substantial use. Such sustained high mileage tends to accelerate wear of components already flagged, including the coil spring, suspension bushes, track rod ends, CV joints, and brake system, and buyers should anticipate further replacement intervals within the short term. High mileage also places greater demand on the engine, clutch, transmission, and exhaust system, all of which fall outside MOT scope but warrant direct physical verification. In light of the recurring front suspension advisories, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to symptoms of wear during a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed humps, potholes, or uneven surfaces, which would indicate that the worn suspension arm bush and track rod end play have progressed beyond advisory status. Inspect the nearside front coil spring visually for any subsequent fracture or sagging, as coil springs that have failed once are often replaced in axle pairs. The deteriorated nearside CV boot should be examined for splits or grease loss; if grease has been flung onto the surrounding suspension or inner CV joint, replacement of the complete driveshaft may be necessary. Uneven or feathered tyre wear, particularly on the inside or outside edges, would corroborate wear in the bushes or steering geometry. Additionally, request evidence that the recent coil spring replacement and CV boot attention were carried out professionally, and verify the condition of all brake pipes given the 2024 advisory regarding corrosion across all pipes, checking beneath the vehicle for any weeping or perished rubber unions. Beyond the recorded defects, the high annual mileage and seventeen-year age demand a broader inspection of items that deteriorate with time and use irrespective of MOT outcomes. Check all four tyres for both legal tread depth and age-related sidewall perishing or cracking, particularly on a vehicle kept outdoors, and confirm that the noted nearside rear cut and embedded nail have been properly repaired. Examine the twelve-volt battery for holding charge and terminal corrosion, the coolant and brake fluid for their respective replacement intervals as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades over time regardless of mileage, and the engine oil for darkening or metallic content indicative of extended service intervals. Inspect the underbody, sill sections, and rear bumper support area for structural corrosion, particularly around mounting points. Finally, verify a continuous service history stamp record covering the high accumulated mileage, as consistent oil and filter changes are critical to the longevity of the engine and transmission in a vehicle of this usage profile.