2010 Toyota IQ3 VVT-I 1.3L Petrol · AY10 XRW

The vehicle presents a wholly stable maintenance trend with no recorded defects across five consecutive annual MOT tests. The most recent examination, conducted on 23 September 2025 at 77,552 miles, resulted in a clean pass with zero advisories or failures. A separate test on 12 September 2025 at 77,623 miles also recorded no defects despite a fail outcome, suggesting an administrative or procedural matter rather than a mechanical fault. This pattern of consistent, defect-free testing indicates diligent preventative upkeep and no emerging mechanical or structural deterioration. The mileage profile is notably low for a 2010 vehicle. Covering just 10,062 miles between August 2022 and September 2025, the annualised rate drops to approximately 3,350 miles per year in that window, well below the 4,847-mile lifetime average. Such subdued usage typically limits wear on consumables and drivetrain components, though prolonged periods of inactivity can introduce its own risks. Extended standing may cause flat-spotting on tyres, moisture accumulation in brake fluid and the exhaust system, and dried-out rubber seals or suspension bushes that lose lubrication and flexibility. Despite the clean MOT record, a hands-on inspection remains essential. Low-mileage city cars like the iQ3 are prone to corrosion on inner wheel arches, sills, and subframes, particularly if the vehicle has sat for long intervals. The tester may not have flagged surface rust yet, but a close visual check with a torch is advisable. Suspension components, including front lower arm bushes and rear beam bushings, should be examined for perishing, as age-related degradation can set in regardless of mileage. Brake condition warrants particular attention. Even with no advisories, caliper slide pins and handbrake mechanisms on lightly used vehicles can seize or bind if the car has been parked for extended spells. A road test should confirm even braking with no pulling or judder. Tyre date codes should be checked, as rubber older than six years can develop sidewall cracking even with ample tread remaining. The clean MOT history is reassuring, but age and low usage demand a thorough physical inspection to catch issues that routine testing may not yet reveal.