2008 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · CE08 RZX

The most recent MOT inspection from June 2026 indicates a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows a concerning trend of worsening mechanical condition. While the car has successfully passed its tests, the frequency and nature of the defects and advisories have increased significantly in the last two years. The transition from a clean test in 2024 to multiple minor defects and several advisories in 2026 suggests that components are reaching the end of their serviceable life simultaneously. The presence of recurring issues with drive shaft boots and suspension components indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase of more intensive maintenance requirements. With a recorded mileage of 101,309 over approximately 18 years, this Toyota Yaris has averaged roughly 5,600 miles per year. This is considered low annual usage, which can be a double-edged sword for a vehicle of this age. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, such infrequent use often leads to age-related degradation of rubber components and fluids. The low usage pattern may have contributed to the perishing of suspension bushes and CV boot rubber, as these components can suffer from ozone cracking and hardening when the vehicle spends long periods stationary or is only driven on short, low-speed trips. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the front-end mechanical condition during a test drive. The recorded deterioration of the nearside front CV boot and the upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint cover are critical items. If the CV boot fails completely, it will allow grease to escape and grit to enter the joint, leading to expensive drive shaft replacement. Listen for a rhythmic clicking sound when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which indicates a failing joint. Additionally, the advisory regarding the nearside front suspension arm bush suggests impending play in the steering. You should listen for clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, and check for any pulling to one side which could indicate misalignment or excessive bushing wear. The exhaust system also requires scrutiny due to the advisory regarding a minor leak at the rear. This can lead to increased noise levels and potentially higher emissions, so listen for any rasping or bubbling sounds from the underside of the car. Furthermore, the recurring advisories regarding tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges suggest either inconsistent tyre pressure management or potential alignment issues. Check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking due to age, and ensure the tread depth is sufficient across the entire width of the tyre. Given the low mileage and age, I also recommend verifying the service history for time-based fluid changes, specifically the brake fluid and coolant, as these degrade chemically regardless of distance travelled.