2015 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · DF64 EXD

The 2015 Toyota Yaris’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-30 resulted in a clean pass, marking a return to compliance after a series of failures in the preceding year. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of stability, with no defects recorded from 2024-01-23 onward, suggesting that the issues from 2023—particularly the seat belt webbing failures, tyre structural damage, and windscreen wiper inefficiency—were either rectified or were anomalies tied to specific conditions at the time. The absence of repeated failures in the past two years indicates a likely resolution of the belt and tyre issues, though the tyre advisories from 2023 remain a cautionary note, especially since the offside rear tyre was deemed unsafe for road use. The front wiper failure in 2021, while not repeated, underscores the importance of maintaining or replacing worn or ineffective windscreen wipers, as they are critical for visibility and safety during adverse weather. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 38,914 miles at 11 years old represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 3,538 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, where components like suspension bushes, seals, and brake components can degrade more rapidly due to standing or infrequent movement. The suspension and steering systems may exhibit signs of wear from static stress, such as creaking from loose or deteriorated suspension bushes, or binding in calipers due to corrosion or seized components. Additionally, brakes could show signs of corrosion on discs or binding in the calliper mechanism, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in damp conditions. Tyres, while not failing the latest MOT, should be closely inspected for signs of perishing or cracking, especially given the advisories from 2023, as sidewall damage can compromise structural integrity over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in this Toyota Yaris are the tyres, seat belts, and suspension systems. Begin with the tyres, checking for any remaining cuts or tears beyond the 2023 MOT findings, particularly on the offside rear tyre, which was deemed unsafe. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and verify that the tread depth meets legal requirements. Inspect the seat belts for any further signs of weakening or fraying, as the 2023 failures were classified as dangerous. The suspension should be tested for excessive play or clunking noises, especially when driving over bumps, which may signal worn suspension bushes or broken coil springs. Listen for any unusual noises from the steering or brakes, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate binding calipers or worn brake pads. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly from the engine bay, differential, or brakes, as standing fluid can accelerate component failure. Beyond mechanical checks, a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing conditions and calendar-based maintenance is essential. Given the low annual mileage, the battery may be in poor condition due to prolonged disuse, leading to corrosion on terminals or a weakened state. Test the 12V battery’s charge and voltage, and consider replacing it if it shows signs of weakness. The brake fluid should be checked for contamination or degradation, as standing fluid can absorb moisture and reduce braking efficiency. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion or warping, and ensure there is no binding in the calliper mechanism. The windscreen wiper blades should be replaced if they are cracked or ineffective, as the 2021 failure highlights the importance of this safety feature. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history is up to date, particularly for fluid changes and filter replacements, as low-mileage vehicles can still suffer from fluid degradation over time, even if the mileage is minimal.