2008 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · EX58 WKC

The Toyota Yaris in question demonstrates a concerning decline in roadworthiness over the past year, with the most recent MOT test on 2025-10-14 revealing critical failures that should have triggered immediate attention. The vehicle failed on four distinct defects—incorrect headlamp aim, a severely worn offside front tyre, an illegible registration plate, and a split near-side front CV joint boot—all of which indicate neglect of both safety-critical and legally mandatory components. The oil leak, while noted as non-excessive, suggests a persistent issue that has not been addressed despite appearing on two consecutive tests. This pattern of recurring faults, particularly the CV joint boot failure and tyre wear, signals a lack of proactive maintenance, with the risk of further deterioration accelerating as the vehicle approaches its 18th year. Mileage accumulation has been steady at approximately 9,500 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and usage profile. The most recent test occurred just nine months ago, which is within the standard MOT validity period, but the failures suggest the vehicle was driven beyond safe limits before the inspection. Notably, there is no evidence of extended periods of inactivity or unusually high mileage between tests, though the consistent wear patterns imply that basic upkeep—such as tyre rotation, CV joint inspections, and headlamp adjustments—has been consistently overlooked. The absence of major gaps in mileage does not mitigate the severity of the defects recorded, which point to a vehicle that has been operated with minimal regard for its mechanical integrity. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate, thorough inspection of the front suspension and drivetrain components, given the repeated failures in the CV joint boot and tyre wear. The split boot on the near-side front joint is particularly concerning, as it poses an imminent risk of grease contamination and joint failure, which could lead to a sudden loss of power steering or handling control. The offside front tyre’s wear close to the legal limit, combined with edge wear, suggests uneven loading or misalignment, warranting a check of wheel bearings, suspension bushes, and coil springs. Additionally, the oil leak—if not addressed—could indicate worn seals in the engine or transmission, requiring verification of fluid levels and potential internal damage. Headlamp aim adjustments are a minor but legally critical issue that should be corrected immediately to avoid further failings. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and sills, should also be assessed, as this is a common failure point in vehicles of this age.