2006 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · AV06 FUG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 8 August 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory concerning a worn off‑side front suspension arm pin or bush. Earlier in the series there were two outright failures in 2022 and 2021, yet from 2020 onward the vehicle has consistently passed with only advisory items, indicating that the major faults have been remedied and the overall maintenance trend is now stabilising rather than deteriorating. At 164,158 mi the Yaris has logged an average of roughly 8,200 mi per annum over its twenty‑year life, which sits squarely within normal usage for a small family car of this vintage. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest severe over‑use, nor long gaps that might hint at prolonged storage; the mileage therefore points to moderate wear on wear‑items such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine components. For a prospective buyer the recurring advisories merit close inspection. The front suspension arm bush should be examined for excessive play or a clunk when the steering wheel is turned, and the condition of the off‑side rear shock absorber bush and the rear coil springs should be checked for corrosion, cracks or loss of damping – any uneven tyre wear or a “squishy” feeling over bumps would be symptomatic. The off‑side rear wheel bearing, noted as slightly noisy, should be listened to while the vehicle is coasting; a growling or grinding noise that changes with speed is a sign the bearing may need replacement. The near‑side rear tyre was flagged as perishing in 2022; inspect the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulges, as aged rubber can fail suddenly even if tread depth appears adequate. The door damage recorded in 2021 should be verified for proper alignment and latch operation, and the previously missing seat‑belt buckle and corroded rear brake pipe must be confirmed as fitted and free of rust, as any compromise here affects safety. Finally, ensure that the headlamp lens is clean and the rear stop lamps function correctly, as these were major failures in 2022 and should have been rectified. Given the car’s age, a thorough time‑based check is advisable regardless of the MOT record. Examine the 12 V battery for electrolyte level, terminal corrosion and cranking performance, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are within specification and consider a full fluid change if service stamps are missing, since fluids degrade with time even when the vehicle is lightly used. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven thickness, and feel for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, which can indicate warped discs or sticking calipers after long periods of standing. A visual survey of the under‑body for rust, especially around the suspension mounting points and exhaust system, will highlight any emerging structural corrosion that could become costly to repair later.