2019 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Petrol · EX69 DVM

The 2019 Toyota Yaris most recently underwent an MOT test on 14 August 2026, where it was recorded as a pass with no defects noted. However, the official DVSA record also shows a failure entry from the same date, in which a Major defect was recorded against the nearside rear wheel bearing for excessive play, categorised under section 5.1.3 (a) (i). Because the vehicle subsequently passed with no defects recorded, it must be assumed that the wheel bearing has been replaced or rectified to the examiner's satisfaction prior to the retest. Prior to this, the vehicle recorded a clean pass in August 2025, an advisory only for front tyres, a clean pass in October 2024, and further clean passes in 2023 and 2022. The maintenance trend over the last three years has therefore been broadly stable, with no recurring or advisory issues flagged aside from the singular front tyre advisory and the recent wheel bearing defect. The sudden appearance of a Major defect on an otherwise clean record is worth noting, although it is not in itself indicative of a broader mechanical decline. With 31,269 miles recorded over approximately seven years, the Yaris has covered an annual average of around 4,467 miles, which is notably low for its age and class. Such a usage profile is consistent with predominantly urban or light private driving, but it also suggests that the vehicle may have spent considerable periods standing, particularly during seasonal lay-ups or periods of restricted use. Lower annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components but places disproportionate stress on certain consumables and ancillaries that degrade with calendar age rather than mileage. Furthermore, the recorded mileages are not available in the provided data, so any prolonged stationary periods cannot be precisely identified, but the overall low figure should prompt the buyer to consider age-related deterioration of rubber and fluid components. Given the recent wheel bearing failure, the buyer should confirm with the seller that the nearside rear bearing has been replaced with a new unit, and should request the invoice or receipt for the work. Even with a replacement, it is prudent to inspect the opposite rear bearing and both front wheel bearings, as bearings on the same axle often suffer comparable fatigue or ingress of moisture and debris. On a test drive, listen for rotational noises such as a low humming or growling that varies with road speed, which is the typical acoustic symptom of a worn wheel bearing, and feel for any irregular vibration or wander through the steering. It is also worth checking that the rear brake calipers have not seized as a consequence of the bearing replacement, and verifying that the rear brake disc surface remains free from excessive scoring or hot spots. Where the work has been carried out recently, confirm that the wheel bearing has been properly seated and torqued, as incorrect fitment can lead to premature re-failure. In view of the low annual mileage, the buyer should pay particular attention to components that suffer from standing rather than mechanical wear. Inspect all four tyres, including the spare if fitted, for sidewall perishing, cracking, and ozone degradation, which can render tyres unsafe even where the tread depth remains legal; the 2025 advisory for front tyres suggests replacement may already have been carried out, so verify the date code on the sidewalls. Check the brake discs for surface corrosion, particularly on the rear axle, and confirm that the calipers are not binding by ensuring the vehicle rolls freely on level ground when released in neutral. Inspect the 12-volt battery for age and state of charge, as low-use vehicles frequently suffer from battery depletion and sulphation; a battery older than five years should ideally be replaced preventatively. Under the bonnet, examine coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil for condition and age rather than merely level, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be replaced every two years regardless of mileage, and verify that the cambelt and oil service intervals have been observed by reference to the service book, as calendar-based servicing is essential on a low-mileage vehicle where annual distance alone does not reflect time-based component degradation.