2006 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · FE06 MLF

The most recent MOT test on 28 April 2026 resulted in a pass, although two advisories were recorded which require attention. A near side front tyre was noted as being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, and the front brake discs were found to be pitted or scored, though not considered seriously weakened at that point. It is worth noting that just five days before this pass, the vehicle had failed on a major defect relating to headlamp aim, with the projected beam image being obviously incorrect; this was clearly remedied prior to the subsequent test. Looking at the broader pattern, the vehicle has experienced MOT failures in three of the last four years, covering issues such as binding brake, defective position lamp lenses, and ineffective wiper operation. While each individual failure was addressed, the recurring nature of these defects, particularly around braking components and lighting, suggests that the maintenance trend requires closer scrutiny rather than being regarded as fully stable. With a recorded mileage of 53,212 miles over approximately twenty years, this Yaris has covered an average of around 2,661 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age. Such low annual mileage typically indicates either light usage or extended periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Low running can lead to oil glazing, fuel system varnishing, brake disc corrosion from lack of regular use, and potential moisture accumulation in the engine and exhaust system. Conversely, very light use means that major mechanical components such as the engine, gearbox, and clutch have not endured significant wear, which is positive. The MOT history itself does not record individual mileages at each test, but the consistency of advisory items related to tyres and brake components suggests a pattern consistent with a vehicle that may have spent considerable time stationary between uses. Several recurring advisories merit careful physical inspection prior to purchase. The near side front tyre has been flagged for edge wear and minor damage across consecutive tests, indicating a likely tracking or suspension geometry issue on that corner, and a buyer should inspect the tyres for uneven shoulder wear, which may point to worn suspension bushes, a failing top mount, or simply an alignment requirement. The front brake disc advisory from the most recent test, combined with the major failure in 2025 for a binding near side front service brake, points to a caliper that may be seizing intermittently or a brake hose that is degrading internally. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for scraping or grinding on light application, feel for pulling to one side under braking, and check for any resistance or juddering when the vehicle is free-rolling. The 2023 advisory regarding a corroded near side front brake pipe, while passed at that time, should be physically inspected for surface rust and any flaking that might warrant replacement before the next test. Beyond the advisory items, the 2022 MOT flagged all four coil springs as corroded and an offside rear inner sub-frame bush as worn, both of which are common age-related concerns on a vehicle of this vintage. While these were advisory only at the time, a prospective buyer should jack the vehicle and inspect the springs for advanced surface corrosion and the rear sub-frame mounting for any movement beyond specification. Given the low annual mileage, particular attention should be paid to areas affected by standing rather than driving wear. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance and resting voltage, as infrequent use shortens battery life considerably. Brake caliper slide pins should be checked for seizing, which can cause the binding behaviour observed in 2025, and the discs should be examined for lipping and severe pitting. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected closely for perishing and cracking from age, regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades over time. Coolant and brake fluid should be considered overdue for replacement based on calendar age, and the timing chain on this era of Yaris engine should be listened for on start-up for any rattling, which would indicate impending tensioner wear. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a competent mechanic, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp, would be strongly advisable given the vehicle's age, the recurring advisories, and the low-mileage profile.