2007 Toyota Auris 1.6L Petrol · FE07 PFX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 September 2025, was passed but returned several advisories – notably rear sub‑frame corrosion, front registration‑plate deterioration, off‑side rear tyre damage and off‑side front tyre wear close to the legal limit. Over the previous four years the pattern of advisories has been consistent: recurring corrosion notes on the rear sub‑frame and the near‑side front lower suspension arm, progressive wear on both front and rear brake discs, thin front brake pads and tyre wear warnings. No outright failures have been recorded, indicating that the vehicle has been kept road‑worthy, but the persistence of the same items suggests a gradual deterioration rather than an improvement in condition. At 129,804 miles for a 19‑year‑old 2007 Toyota Auris the average annual mileage works out to roughly 6,800 mi, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage band of 5‑8 000 mi per year. There are no obvious gaps or periods of unusually high mileage that would point to a hidden high‑use phase, so the wear on consumables is broadly in line with the vehicle’s age. Nonetheless, a mileage of this magnitude means that suspension bushings, engine mounts, drivetrain bearings and exhaust components are likely to have accumulated a significant amount of service life and should be inspected for fatigue or corrosion. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the rear sub‑frame and the near‑side front lower suspension arm; look for any rust that has penetrated beyond surface coating, signs of flex or clunk when the wheels are rocked, and check the condition of the rubber bushings for cracking or excessive play. The brake system warrants a thorough check – measure the remaining thickness of the front pads, confirm that the discs are not deeply scored or approaching the minimum thickness, and test for any pedal pulsation, shudder or increased stopping distances during a drive. The tyre warnings in the MOT suggest that the off‑side front tyre is close to the legal limit and the off‑side rear tyre shows perishing; inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracks, tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm), uneven wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components, and be prepared to replace any tyre that shows age‑related cracking even if the tread appears adequate. Finally, verify the condition of the exhaust system for the minor leak noted in 2023 – listen for a faint hissing or ticking at low revs and watch for a faint exhaust smell in the cabin, as a leak can affect emissions and fuel efficiency. Check the battery’s cranking voltage and look for any signs of sulfation on the terminals, as a 19‑year‑old car may have been stationary for periods. Inspect all fluid levels and consider a change of engine oil, coolant and brake fluid if the service book shows no recent entries, since fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. A visual inspection of the under‑body for any new rust, especially around wheel arches and the rear chassis, and a review of any available service stamps will give you a clearer picture of how well the vehicle has been maintained and what imminent maintenance may be required.