2017 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · CV67 DNF

The most recent MOT test on 16 December 2025 resulted in a PASS, but the examiner recorded four advisory items alongside one minor defect, suggesting that although the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, several wear-related and cosmetic issues are beginning to accumulate. The advisory concerning front brake pads wearing thin is the most mechanically significant item, as it indicates the friction material is approaching its minimum serviceable thickness and will likely require replacement before the next MOT is due. The remaining advisories relate to perishing on both rear tyres, an insecure nearside external mirror held on with tape, and a minor windscreen chip that does not currently obstruct the driver's view. Reviewing the broader trend across the available MOT history, the 2022 and 2021 tests were completely clean, but from 2023 onwards a recurring pattern of rear tyre perishing advisories has emerged, and brake component wear has now been flagged. This represents a gradual shift from pristine condition to one where age-related deterioration is becoming more apparent, which is typical for a nine-year-old vehicle. In terms of mileage, this Toyota Aygo has covered 49,673 miles over approximately nine years, yielding an annual average of around 5,519 miles. This is well below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and suggests either genuinely light running or extended periods of standing between uses. While lower mileage generally preserves major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it introduces its own set of age-related concerns. Prolonged standing can lead to moisture accumulation in the engine oil, degradation of brake fluid through hygroscopic absorption, deterioration of the 12V battery due to repeated partial discharge cycles, and corrosion on brake discs from infrequent use. The fact that several consecutive MOT advisories relate to tyre perishing and cracking rather than tread wear strongly supports the likelihood of a vehicle that has stood for prolonged intervals, as tyres degrade through oxidation regardless of mileage accumulation. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priorities should be a thorough physical inspection of the brake system. With the front brake pads recorded as wearing thin, the discs should be examined for lipping, scoring, or corrosion pitting, particularly given the suspected periods of standing which can cause disc surface rust. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front brakes and pay attention to pedal travel or any pulling to one side under braking, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. The rear tyres, which have now received perishing advisories on three consecutive MOT tests, should be carefully inspected for sidewall cracking, particularly in the flex zone between the tread and the wheel rim, as this cracking will only worsen with time and UV exposure regardless of remaining tread depth. Both rear tyres should realistically be replaced prior to purchase, and it would be prudent to verify the age of the front tyres as well, since age-related deterioration affects all four wheels on a lightly used vehicle. Beyond the documented advisories, several age- and usage-appropriate checks should be carried out. Verify the service history stamps to confirm that engine oil and filter changes, along with spark plug replacement and coolant renewal, have been performed at the manufacturer's recommended intervals, as calendar-based servicing is just as important as mileage-based intervals for a low-use car. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries that have experienced repeated shallow discharge cycles during periods of standing often fail without warning, typically every four to five years on a vehicle of this age. Inspect the exhaust system for surface corrosion, paying particular attention to the rear silencer and mounting rubbers which are prone to deterioration on older vehicles. Under the bonnet, check for any signs of fluid leaks around the cam cover gasket and check that the coolant reservoir shows clean, properly mixed fluid rather than discoloured or rusty contents. Finally, examine the underside of the vehicle for any corrosion on structural components, suspension arms, and brake lines, and check that all warning lamps illuminate correctly and that the air conditioning system functions, as neglected systems on lightly used cars frequently require re-gassing or compressor attention.