2013 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · CL02 REF

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 October 2025, though this followed a failure that necessitated the replacement of both front coil springs and the windscreen wiper. An analysis of the historical data suggests a maintenance trend that is beginning to decline, as the vehicle has transitioned from minor advisories regarding suspension bushes in 2024 to the total failure of structural spring components in 2025. While the car remains roadworthy, the pattern of failures indicates that the chassis and suspension are now entering a phase of accelerated wear. With a recorded mileage of 70,461 miles over approximately thirteen years, this Yaris has averaged roughly 5,420 miles per year. This is considerably lower than typical UK usage, suggesting the vehicle has been used for short-distance urban commuting or has spent significant periods stationary. While the drivetrain has likely experienced less mechanical stress, low-mileage vehicles are often more susceptible to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of moisture-related corrosion within the braking and suspension systems. The MOT history reveals recurring issues with the front end that require scrutiny. The failure of both front coil springs, coupled with previous advisories for worn wishbone rear bushes, points to a suspension system that has suffered from age-related fatigue. During a test drive, listen for metallic clunks or knocking sounds when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are typical symptoms of worn bushes. Additionally, the repeated advisories for tyres worn on the edges suggest a potential wheel alignment issue; inspect the current tyre treads for uneven wear and ensure the steering remains centered without drifting. Given the low annual mileage, you must perform several age-specific physical checks. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or evidence of binding calipers, which can occur when a vehicle is left standing for long periods. Finally, verify the service records to ensure that engine oil and other fluids have been replaced according to calendar intervals rather than mileage alone, and test the health of the 12V battery, as infrequent use often leads to premature battery failure.