2020 Toyota Proace 1.5L Diesel · AF70 UAB

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2020 Toyota Proace was conducted on 31 October 2025, at which point the vehicle passed with a single advisory issued regarding a nearside rear tyre exhibiting slight damage, cracking or perishing. Prior to that, the vehicle passed without any recorded defects on 7 October 2024, and on 21 September 2023 an advisory was noted for a cut on the nearside front tyre sidewall that did not penetrate to the ply or cords. The maintenance trend across these three tests is broadly stable, with the vehicle consistently passing the roadworthiness standard and no structural, braking or emissions failures recorded. However, the recurrence of tyre-related advisories on the same nearside side over consecutive tests does warrant attention, as it may suggest either a susceptibility to kerbing damage on that side or a pattern of tyres reaching an age-related deterioration point sooner than expected. The recorded mileage of 19,534 miles over a six-year period equates to an annual average of roughly 3,256 miles, which is considerably below typical commercial or family van usage and indicates either light-duty operation or extended periods of standing between journeys. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major mechanical components such as the clutch, turbocharger, diesel particulate filter and internal engine surfaces, but conversely elevates the risk of deterioration through inactivity. Prolonged standing periods can lead to moisture accumulation within the engine and exhaust system, oxidation of brake discs and calipers, degradation of rubber components through lack of flex, and potential issues with the diesel particulate filter failing to complete passive regeneration cycles. Any significant gaps in the mileage record would also be worth verifying through the service book documentation to confirm consistent low usage rather than a potential odometer irregularity. From a practical inspection standpoint, a buyer should physically examine all four tyres, paying particular attention to the nearside pair where the advisories were issued, checking for sidewall cracking, perishing, cuts and tread depth across the full circumference rather than just the central wear band. The age of the tyres should be confirmed via the DOT date code on the sidewall, as tyres older than six years are prone to hardening and reduced grip regardless of remaining tread. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes or coil springs given the low-mileage but age-advanced nature of the vehicle. The braking system should be evaluated for a juddering sensation through the pedal or steering wheel under firm application, which would suggest disc corrosion or warping from extended standing, and the handbrake should be tested on an incline to confirm the rear calipers are not seizing from lack of use. Additional checks appropriate to this vehicle's age and usage profile include a thorough inspection of the 12-volt battery, which often deteriorates through repeated shallow discharge cycles when a vehicle is used infrequently, and verification of all fluid service histories including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and any manual or automatic transmission fluid, as these degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage. The exhaust system, particularly the diesel particulate filter and catalytic converter, should be inspected for warning lights on the dashboard, as low-mileage diesel operation frequently results in incomplete regeneration and potential filter saturation. Under the bonnet, look for any signs of rodent damage to wiring or perished rubber hoses and drive belts, both of which can deteriorate through age and inactivity. Finally, ensure the service book contains stamps or invoices at appropriate intervals, that the vehicle history check shows no mileage discrepancies, and that any previous advisory items have been addressed with documented rectification.