2010 Toyota Auris 1.3L Petrol · AF59 TSZ

The most recent DVSA MOT on 1 November 2025 recorded a pass but was accompanied by a series of advisories and a simultaneous failure entry for the same date, indicating that while the vehicle met the minimum safety criteria, there are unresolved items that prevented a clean pass. Earlier MOTs in 2023 and 2024 were completely clean, but from 2021 onward a pattern of recurring corrosion, suspension dust‑cover deterioration and minor leaks has emerged, suggesting a gradual decline rather than an improvement in the overall maintenance condition. With 80,521 miles logged on a 2010 model, the car averages just over 5 000 miles per year – well below the typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The low annual mileage points to relatively light duty, possibly with extended periods of storage, which can exacerbate corrosion on suspension components and brake pipework. However, the modest mileage also means that wear‑related items such as the clutch, gearbox and engine internals are likely to be in better shape than a high‑mileage equivalent, provided the vehicle has been kept dry and serviced regularly. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension arms on both sides, checking the condition of the ball‑joint dust covers and looking for any signs of rust ingress, cracked rubber, or looseness that could translate into clunking or vague steering feel under load. The rear axle corrosion noted repeatedly should be inspected for surface flaking that could progress to structural weakening; any audible rattles when the car is lifted or while cornering would merit a professional assessment. The off‑side rear brake pipe shows surface corrosion and grease contamination – verify that the pipe is not leaking, that the brake pedal is firm and that there is no wetness around the rear wheels. The oil leak advisory, although described as non‑excessive, should be traced to its source – a leaking valve cover gasket or oil filter housing can lead to oil on the exhaust or under‑tray, potentially causing fire‑hazard smoke or premature belt wear. The front brake discs have been flagged as pitted but not yet critically thinned; a visual inspection for scoring and a measurement of disc thickness will indicate whether replacement is imminent, especially if the driver feels a shudder when applying the brakes. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, time‑related deterioration is a key concern. Examine all tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot, cracking or hardening, as rubber can perish even on lightly used tyres. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester; a battery older than five years may struggle to hold charge, particularly after long periods of inactivity. Check coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid for colour and clarity – fluids that have been sitting for many years can become acidic or contaminated, reducing their effectiveness and potentially causing internal corrosion. Finally, confirm that the service booklet contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any recommended corrosion‑prevention treatments have been carried out, as these will be decisive factors in the car’s future reliability.