2010 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · BF60 EBJ

An unusual usage pattern defined by exceptionally low annual mileage is the primary characteristic of this vehicle, though the MOT history shows intermittent mechanical failures rather than a consistent trend of perfect roadworthiness. While the most recent test on 14 October 2025 resulted in a pass, the record includes a dangerous failure in 2022 regarding brake pad thickness and a major failure in 2023 involving a fractured coil spring, a non-functional side repeater, and an ineffective windscreen wiper. The recent advisory regarding a deteriorated front registration plate is a minor cosmetic concern, but the previous history indicates that critical components like suspension and braking systems have reached failure thresholds at certain intervals. The vehicle has covered 52,779 miles over approximately 16 years, which equates to an average of roughly 3,300 miles per year. This level of usage is significantly lower than the UK average and suggests the car has spent considerable periods stationary or was used only for very short trips. Mechanically, such low usage can mean that while drivetrain wear may be minimal, other components such as rubber bushes, seals, and suspension elements may be subject to age-related degradation rather than mileage-related wear. The lack of significant mileage accumulation means that components are more likely to fail due to time and environmental exposure rather than heavy mechanical load. When conducting a test drive, specific attention should be paid to the front suspension and braking system given the previous failures. The 2023 failure for a fractured offside front coil spring necessitates a close inspection of both front coil springs for any signs of corrosion or surface cracking, and a test drive should be used to listen for any metallic knocks or clunks when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps. Furthermore, because the vehicle previously failed on a dangerous brake pad thickness reading, the braking performance must be evaluated for any pulling to one side under moderate braking or any unusual noises from the calipers, which could indicate uneven wear or binding. The effectiveness of the windscreen wiper mechanism should also be verified, as a previous failure noted an inability to clear the windscreen effectively. Ensure the wiper blades do not chatter or leave streaks across the glass, which could indicate perished rubber or a faulty motor. Finally, although the most recent advisory was limited to the registration plate, the history of component failures suggests that a thorough visual check of all exterior lighting, including the side repeaters, is necessary to ensure all electrical circuits are functioning correctly and that no other age-related deterioration has occurred between testing intervals.