2007 Toyota Auris 1.6L Petrol · FE07 KXS

A pattern of brake system deterioration dominates the roadworthiness profile of this 2007 Toyota Auris, with brake pipe corrosion appearing as an advisory across multiple consecutive tests and a serious tyre tread failure noted in 2024. The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 12 June 2026, but only with an advisory for corroded brake pipes covered in grease or other material at various locations around the chassis, matching the identical advisory recorded at the same date in 2024. Earlier advisories from the 2023 test highlight a broader degradation of the braking system, including thinning front brake pads, a pitted and scored nearside front inner brake disc, a nearside front tyre worn on edge, a corroded ferrule on the nearside rear brake hose, and a corroded nearside rear brake pipe also coated in grease. While none of these issues have yet tipped into outright failure territory, the recurring nature of the brake pipe advisories suggests a progressive corrosion problem that will likely require intervention before the next test, particularly given the nineteen-year age of the vehicle. Mileage accumulation on this Auris stands at 135,829 miles over approximately nineteen years, equating to an annual average of roughly 7,149 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and points to consistent year-round use rather than long periods off the road. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest extended standing time, a factor that reduces concerns about seized brakes, perished rubber, or stagnant fluids. However, the mileage itself is substantial for a vehicle of this era, and at this level of accumulation wear on suspension bushes, engine mountings, clutch components, and general drivetrain components should be expected. The relatively even annual running suggests the engine and gearbox have been worked consistently rather than left idle for extended intervals, which generally supports internal mechanical condition. For a prospective buyer, the brake pipe corrosion flagged repeatedly is the primary area demanding close physical inspection. Have the underside of the vehicle examined on a ramp or over a pit, paying particular attention to all brake pipes along their length, especially where they run along the chassis rails, through chassis outriggers, and near any jacking points, looking for advanced surface corrosion, pitting, or any sections where the protective coating has failed and rust is weeping through. The nearside rear brake hose and ferrule should also be inspected for further corrosion since the 2023 advisory, as brake hoses of this age can become brittle and prone to bulging under pressure. On a test drive, listen for any knocking from the suspension over uneven roads, feel for pedal sponginess or excessive travel that might indicate air ingress or deteriorating flexible hoses, and check for any pulling to one side under braking which could indicate a seized caliper or uneven pad wear. The nearside front tyre wear pattern noted in 2023, specifically worn on the edge, is worth investigating as it can indicate suspension geometry issues such as worn wishbone bushes, a failing top mount, or a drooping coil spring, all of which are common on high-mileage Toyota models of this generation. The pitted nearside front brake disc should be checked for lipping, run-out, and any vibration felt through the steering wheel or brake pedal under firm application, as a heavily scored disc can compromise stopping performance and may require machining or replacement. Given the age and mileage, also verify the condition of the exhaust system for corrosion around the box section and rear silencer, inspect the CV boots for splits, and ensure the cooling system has been maintained with recent hoses and a healthy radiator, as these are all age-related items that will not appear on an MOT but warrant attention on a car approaching two decades of service.