2012 Toyota Auris 1.6L Petrol · AV12 AVJ

The latest MOT test on the 2012 Toyota Auris was conducted on 2026-03-21 and resulted in a failure due to two critical defects: the offside front position lamp not functioning and insufficient front windscreen washer fluid supply. This failure contrasts sharply with the previous three MOTs, which were all passed, indicating a sudden deterioration in the vehicle’s roadworthiness. The failure highlights a potential issue with the vehicle’s electrical system or wiring for the position lamp, which could stem from a failing lamp module, relay, or connector failure. The windscreen washer system’s inadequacy suggests either a clogged washer nozzle, a malfunctioning pump, or an empty reservoir, both of which are straightforward to rectify but require immediate attention to prevent further degradation of the windscreen’s integrity. While the failure is concerning, it does not preclude the vehicle from being roadworthy if these issues are addressed promptly, but the buyer should proceed with caution and prioritise rectifying these defects before any further testing. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 87,908 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,279 miles per year, which is typical for a 14-year-old car driven under normal conditions. Such mileage accumulation over the years is consistent with a vehicle that has been used regularly but not excessively, though the absence of a service history or detailed maintenance records means that wear patterns cannot be precisely correlated with mileage alone. The lack of significant mileage spikes suggests that the car has not been subjected to extreme driving conditions, such as heavy towing or off-road use, which could accelerate wear on components like brakes, suspension, and drivetrain elements. However, the vehicle’s age and the presence of advisories—particularly those related to brake disc wear and suspension ball joint deterioration—indicate that it has accumulated wear beyond what would be expected from low-mileage use alone, warranting a thorough inspection of these critical systems. Given the recent MOT failure and the recurring advisories, the prospective buyer should commence with a comprehensive mechanical inspection focusing on the electrical and lighting systems. The offside front position lamp failure could manifest as a persistent misalignment warning on the dashboard or a noticeable shift in steering feel when the vehicle is angled, particularly at low speeds. To diagnose, the buyer should check the lamp’s wiring harness for corrosion or disconnections, test the lamp module’s functionality with a multimeter, and inspect the position sensor for debris or damage. The windscreen washer issue may present as streaking or incomplete clearing of the windscreen, especially in drizzle, and could be confirmed by checking the washer fluid level and ensuring the nozzle is clear of obstructions. Immediate attention to these defects is essential to prevent further electrical or fluid system failures that could compromise visibility or road safety. Beyond the immediate MOT failures, the advisories present more long-term concerns that require proactive maintenance. The nearside and offside front brake discs showing wear, pitting, or scoring but not being seriously weakened suggest that the braking system has been subjected to moderate to heavy use, which is common in a vehicle of this age and mileage. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squeaking noise when braking, or a vibration or shudder that may indicate warped discs or worn brake pads. Inspect the discs for deep grooves, cracks, or excessive thickness loss, and verify that the calipers are not binding or seized. The severely deteriorated ball joints on the near-side front suspension arms and anti-roll bar linkage indicate that these components are nearing the end of their serviceable life. These joints support the suspension’s articulation and absorb road shocks; their deterioration can lead to clunking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps or uneven surfaces, and may eventually result in suspension instability or misalignment. The buyer should replace these ball joints promptly to prevent further suspension damage and ensure a smooth ride. Additionally, the rear exhaust mounting defect could allow exhaust gases to leak into the cabin, posing a health risk, and may also lead to increased noise or vibration. Inspect the mounting points for cracks or corrosion, and consider replacing the mounting brackets or exhaust system if necessary to maintain emissions compliance and structural integrity. For the child seat advisory, ensure that any rear-mounted seat is securely fitted and does not obstruct the inspection of the adult seat belts, which is a legal requirement for MOT compliance.