2009 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · CV09 VCJ

A pattern of long-standing corrosion across the underbody, brake hydraulic circuit, and suspension components defines the mechanical trajectory of this seventeen year old Toyota Yaris. The most recent test on 04 March 2026 returned a Pass, though the rear brake pipe was again noted as corroded and coated in grease or other material, a defect first flagged in identical terms during the 14 March 2024 examination. This persistent advisory on the long rear brake lines, combined with the 2025 test recording slight corrosion to steering, suspension, body and chassis items, indicates that the vehicle is undergoing the typical age-related oxidation expected of a car that has seen British winters and road salt for nearly two decades. The single failure recorded on 13 March 2024 was largely advisory in nature, with the items removed from the driver view being the principal cause for refusal, and the subsequent pass the following day confirms no structural or dangerous defects were uncovered at that point. Overall, the record shows no sudden deterioration but rather a slow, steady accumulation of surface and component corrosion typical of high-mileage Japanese hatchbacks of this era. With 116,538 miles recorded across approximately seventeen years, this Yaris has averaged around 6,855 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and consistent with regular commuter or family use rather than long-term storage or extreme high mileage. The annual MOT cadence has been uninterrupted since 2023, indicating the vehicle has remained in active service throughout its life and has not suffered any prolonged off-road periods that could introduce issues such as seized brakes, perished rubber, or deteriorated fuel system components. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent with steady everyday use, which means wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, clutches, and suspension bushes has been gradual rather than abrupt, allowing components to be replaced at normal service intervals rather than suffering the neglect often seen in intermittent-use vehicles. For a prospective buyer, the brake hydraulic system warrants particular attention given the recurring advisories about corroded rear brake lines. On inspection, the long pipes running to the rear axle should be examined for pitting, flaking, or any signs of active rust weeping, and a firm press of the brake pedal should produce a solid feel without excessive travel or sponginess. The front suspension arm rear bushes, flagged on both sides during the 2024 test, should be checked by rocking each front wheel side to side at the top and bottom, listening for clonking or feeling for play that has now progressed beyond the not-excessive-movement threshold. A test drive over uneven roads should reveal any knocking from the front suspension, vague steering, or vibration through the wheel that would indicate worn bushes, top mounts, or drop links. Further scrutiny should focus on the underbody and chassis components referenced in the 2023 and 2025 advisories. With the vehicle on a ramp, examine the subframe mounting points, steering rack, and any structural sections for corrosion that penetrates beyond the surface level, particularly around jacking points, sill seams, and suspension turrets where rust can advance unseen. The nearside front brake was noted as slightly binding in 2023, so on a test drive the car should roll freely without resistance, and the wheel should not feel noticeably hotter than its counterpart after driving. Given that three tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit in 2025, a fresh set of tyres is likely imminent, and any uneven wear patterns across the new tyres after fitting could reveal tracking or suspension geometry issues stemming from worn components. Finally, request evidence of recent brake fluid renewal, as the age of the hydraulic fluid in a vehicle with corroded pipes is a relevant safety consideration.