2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · DC66 PLV

A clean, defect-free MOT record over the past four consecutive testing cycles establishes a strong roadworthiness profile for this 2016 Toyota Yaris, with the most recent pass on 18 August 2025 following passes in 2023, 2022, and an earlier entry on 28 August 2024. The fact that no advisories, minor defects, or failure items have been recorded across any of these tests indicates that the wear-related components typically flagged on a ten-year-old supermini, such as coil springs, suspension bushes, brake discs and pads, and exhaust mounting rubbers, are presently within serviceable limits at the time of test. The duplicate entries dated 28 August 2024, one pass and one fail both with no defects recorded, are a routine DVSA administrative artefact reflecting the test being aborted and immediately retaken rather than any mechanical concern. Overall, the trend is stable and the car presents a tidy official history with no accumulating wear flagged. At 57,442 miles over a ten-year life, this Yaris has accumulated approximately 5,700 miles annually, which is notably below the typical mileage for a vehicle of its age and class. This low annual accumulation suggests either genuine light use, perhaps as a short urban commuter or second car, or periods of inactivity between tests. Mechanically, low mileage on a small petrol-engined Toyota of this era is broadly favourable, as the 1.0 or 1.5 VVT-i units are robust and benefit from not being subjected to prolonged high-mileage thermal cycling. However, lower use can bring its own considerations, particularly around standing-start deterioration of rubber components, brake discs corroding on the surface from infrequent use, and age-related degradation of coolant hoses and interior trim. The continuous yearly testing record with no significant gaps suggests the vehicle has remained in regular, if modest, use rather than being laid up for extended periods. From a buyer inspection standpoint, the absence of recorded advisories means there is no specific component flagged on paper that requires targeted investigation, but the age and mileage profile still warrant a focused physical check. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven roads, particularly from the lower wishbone bushes and anti-roll bar drop links, and pay attention to a loose or wandering sensation in the steering that could indicate worn rack mounts. Check the brake pedal feel for any excessive travel or sponginess, and on the road listen for any rubbing noise from the discs that might suggest a sticking caliper, a common age-related issue that does not always present at MOT. Visually inspect the underside, or have it inspected on a ramp, for any emerging corrosion on the rear axle beam, subframe mounting points, and brake pipes, as well as any signs of oil seepage from the engine and gearbox joints. Given the clean MOT history and modest mileage, a pre-purchase inspection should focus on confirming that the car has been actively maintained rather than merely standing and starting occasionally. Request evidence of recent replacement of the cambelt or timing chain service interval depending on engine variant, as a 2016 Yaris approaching ten years old will be due for this attention regardless of mileage. Check the condition of the battery, the operation of all interior electrical items including the infotainment and air conditioning, and ensure the cooling system has been refreshed, since aged coolant is a frequent cause of corrosion-related issues on older Toyotas. A compression or leak-down test would be prudent if there is any doubt about engine health given the low usage. Provided the physical inspection confirms the absence of any concerning wear, corrosion, or leaks, this Yaris presents a low-mileage example with an unblemished testing record that should provide reliable service.