2007 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · DU07 KLM

The most recent MOT, dated 6 December 2023, was passed but carried several advisories concerning front sub‑frame corrosion, rear tyre edge wear, front brake disc and pad condition and rear coil‑spring mounting corrosion. The vehicle had failed the previous day due to a major exhaust leak, which appears to have been remedied before the subsequent pass. Over the past five years the record shows a pattern of recurring wear items – notably the CV boot deterioration, sub‑frame and coil‑spring corrosion and tyre wear – interspersed with isolated failures such as a rear wheel bearing and exhaust leaks. While no new major defects have emerged since the 2023 repair, the persistence of similar advisories indicates a maintenance regime that is holding the car serviceable but not improving the underlying wear, so the trend is essentially stable yet requires ongoing attention. At 157,305 miles for a 2007 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8,300 mi, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious large mileage gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, but the modest yearly accumulation does imply that many of the wear items are age‑related as well as mileage‑related. The combination of 19 years on the road and over 150 000 mi means that suspension bushings, engine mounts and drivetrain components will have experienced both calendar and distance wear, and the corrosion advisories are consistent with a car that has spent a fair amount of time exposed to the elements. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front sub‑frame and rear coil‑spring mounting areas, inspecting for rust penetration, cracked paint or any flex when a firm push is applied to the front corners. The CV joint boots on the off‑side front drive shaft should be examined for tears, grease leakage or dried‑out material, as a failed boot can lead to joint failure and noisy vibration at higher speeds. The rear wheel bearing that was previously noted as rough should be checked by spinning the wheel while the car is lifted; any grinding, growling or excessive play signals a bearing that may need replacement. Brake discs should be measured for thickness and inspected for deep scoring; thin pads will manifest as reduced pedal feel and possible shudder under braking, especially when the vehicle is cold. Tyre sidewalls should be probed for cracks, hardening or dry rot, and the tread depth on the off‑side rear tyre must be well above the legal limit, as edge wear was flagged in successive MOTs. Beyond the specific defects, a vehicle of this age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery – a load test is advisable – and check that the electrolyte level is adequate if it is a conventional lead‑acid type. Coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids should be examined for colour and sediment, with a view to replacement if they appear dark or contain particles, as fluid degradation is time‑dependent. Inspect the under‑body for rust on the chassis rails, suspension arms and exhaust brackets, and ensure the exhaust system is free of leaks and rattles. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and timing‑belt or chain service entries appropriate to the model, as a well‑documented maintenance history will mitigate many of the age‑related risks inherent in a 19‑year‑old Yaris.