2010 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · FE60 FCX

Recurring electrical and suspension failures have emerged as a significant mechanical trend for this vehicle, as evidenced by the failed MOT on 07 September 2026. This recent failure involved multiple major defects, including an inoperative engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), an ABS warning lamp indicating a fault, a failed position lamp, and a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber. This follows a similar failure in August 2025 which also flagged an inoperative MIL, an exhaust lambda reading outside specified limits, and a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber. While the vehicle has passed its most recent test, the recurrence of these specific major issues suggests intermittent or unresolved faults within the engine management and braking systems. The vehicle has covered 144,492 miles over its sixteen-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual usage of approximately 9,031 miles. This mileage accumulation is consistent with typical UK driving patterns for a vehicle of this age. Such steady usage suggests that while the drivetrain and suspension components have been subjected to regular, moderate wear, the vehicle has not been subject to the extreme high-mileage stress of long-distance motorway commuting, nor the potential stagnation issues associated with very low annual mileage. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the engine management and braking systems during a test drive. The repeated failures regarding the MIL and ABS warning lamps necessitate a thorough check to ensure no warning lights illuminate on the dashboard when the engine is started or during vehicle operation. Any flickering or unexpected illumination of the ABS light should be treated as a significant concern. Furthermore, the history of exhaust lambda readings falling outside specified limits indicates potential issues with the catalytic converter or oxygen sensors; listen for any unusual engine hesitation, rough idling, or changes in exhaust note that might suggest incomplete combustion or sensor malfunction. Suspension integrity also requires close inspection due to the documented history of shock absorber leaks and corroded coil springs. The 2024 advisory noted corrosion on both the nearside and offside rear coil springs, and the 2025 and 2026 failures specifically identified serious fluid leaks from the rear shock absorbers. During a test drive, pay close attention to the vehicle's handling over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or thudding sounds coming from the rear, and feel for excessive bouncing or a lack of damping, which would indicate that the shock absorbers are not effectively controlling the suspension movement.