2003 Toyota Yaris 1.4L Diesel · FH03 JTV

This 2003 Toyota Yaris presents a stable and highly consistent maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass at its most recent MOT on 30 July 2025 at 167,614 miles. The vehicle passed with zero defects recorded, mirroring the outcome of the previous year's assessment. An earlier failed test on the same date in July 2025 also lists no defects, indicating an aborted test or an immediate re-test rather than a mechanical failure. The absence of any advisories or failures across the entire recorded history demonstrates a disciplined approach to preventative upkeep by the previous keeper. The mileage accumulation aligns closely with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 7,288 miles annually over its twenty-three-year lifespan. Examining the recent chronological data reveals a gradual reduction in annual mileage. Between the August 2022 test at 151,011 miles and the July 2023 test at 160,164 miles, the Yaris covered 9,153 miles. This dropped to 4,234 miles over the following twelve months, and further declined to just 3,216 miles between July 2024 and July 2025. This tapering mileage profile suggests the vehicle has transitioned from regular commuting duties to lighter, local use in its later years. Despite the impeccable MOT record, a physical inspection remains essential for a vehicle approaching its mid-teens in mileage and over two decades in age. The tester flagged no corrosion or structural issues in the official records, but a twenty-three-year-old steel monocoque requires close scrutiny. Buyers should thoroughly examine the sills, subframes, and suspension mounting points for any signs of surface perforation or structural rust that might not have warranted a failure at the time of the last test. At 167,614 miles, the suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers will have endured significant cyclic loading. A bounce test and a close look for perished rubber or oil dampers will reveal the true condition of these ageing components. Brake discs and pads should be measured for wear, as low annual mileage can lead to lipping and corrosion on standing components rather than the smooth wear patterns seen on high-mileage vehicles. The exhaust system and flexible joints must be checked for gas leaks and corrosion, particularly given the stop-start nature of short-journey driving implied by the recent low mileage. Tyre age is another critical factor; even with sufficient tread depth, rubber degrades over time, and any tyre older than six years poses a latent risk.