2018 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · FE18 OGH

A pattern of recurring advisories and a single major failure defines the mechanical story of this 2018 Toyota Aygo, beginning with minor cosmetic and tyre concerns in 2021, progressing through persistent brake disc warnings in 2023, and culminating in a severe front brake disc failure recorded on 2024-01-26. Despite passing the most recent MOT on 2026-01-23 with no defects, the trajectory of reported issues reveals a front brake system that has deteriorated progressively rather than remaining stable. The 2024 failure indicated front brake discs were significantly and obviously worn on both sides, a condition that directly impacts stopping performance and creates a safety concern that would require immediate attention upon acquisition. The later advisory in 2023 regarding pitted or scored front brake discs further underscores that the front axle assembly has not simply recovered, suggesting cumulative wear or inadequate repair following earlier deterioration. The recorded mileage of 36,816 miles across eight years equates to approximately 4,600 miles per annum, a rate that is unusually low for a compact hatchback of this generation and raises questions about the vehicle's actual usage profile. While such low figures could indicate infrequent driving or extended periods of storage, they also mean that high-wear components like brake discs and tyres have accumulated less total life than a heavily used counterpart would have. The gap between the 2024 failed test and the subsequent 2025 pass suggests the issue may have been temporarily mitigated or the vehicle sat unused, yet the 2023 advisory about rear tyres showing cracking and perishing demonstrates that other systems have also aged under minimal stress. This combination of low mileage alongside documented brake and tyre problems implies the vehicle may have been kept under light use, potentially allowing certain components to degrade slowly while others remain relatively fresh, though the severity of the 2024 brake failure indicates that underlying wear was substantial enough to trigger a major MOT failure despite the low odometer reading. Focus on the front brake discs first, as they represent the most critical safety concern identified in the history. During a test drive, you should feel for any grinding or squealing noise when applying the brakes, particularly on descending inclines where braking force is highest, as worn pads and scoring on rotors often produce distinctive sounds. Inspect the front brake discs visually for obvious thinning or excessive surface irregularity beyond normal wear patterns; a deep grind or visible scoring warrants immediate replacement. The rear tyres, flagged in 2023 with cracking and perishing in the tread, should be examined for uneven wear bands, sidewall bulging, or complete loss of rubber in the tread grooves, as these conditions can compromise handling balance and increase the risk of hydroplaning. Additionally, the wiper blade defect noted in January 2025 is a minor item but should be verified for smooth operation to ensure adequate visibility, especially if the vehicle will be used frequently in wet weather. Given the documented history of front brake disc failure in early 2024 and the subsequent advisory on rear tyres, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential before committing to this vehicle. Have a qualified mechanic perform a full brake system audit including rotor thickness measurement, caliper operation check, and brake line integrity assessment, paying particular attention to whether the 2024 failure was due to genuine wear or residual damage from prior repairs. The low mileage does not absolve the importance of confirming that the front brake system was properly restored after the 2024 incident, as insufficiently repaired original parts can continue to fail unexpectedly. Before finalising the purchase, verify that all fluid levels are correct, the undercarriage has been inspected for rust or corrosion that could affect long-term reliability, and that the tyres meet current legal tread depth requirements, as the 2023 crack indication suggests the rear tyres may already be approaching end-of-life status. These checks will help determine whether the vehicle represents a safe buy at this stage or requires additional investment in repairs.