2013 Toyota Auris 1.6L Petrol · FN13 HRP

The MOT history for this 2013 Toyota Auris paints a picture of a vehicle that has reached an age where electrical faults and front-end wear issues are starting to dominate the test record. The most recent activity on 2026-03-09 produced a pass alongside a fail on the same day, which is a relatively unusual outcome and indicates that rectification work may have been carried out between the two entries. Across the recorded tests, there have been two failures and three passes, with the defects centring on front lighting, headlamp aim, and an anti-roll bar ball joint. The accumulation of major defects relating to front headlamp operation, particularly main beam failure on both sides in early 2024 and more recent headlamp aim and DRL issues, points to a front-end electrical or wiring concern that warrants investigation rather than dismissal as isolated bulb failures. With 90,642 miles recorded over approximately 13 years, the vehicle is running at around 6,972 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a car of this age and is not low enough to raise immediate concerns about prolonged standing or dry seals. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing history, with tests recorded consistently across consecutive years, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular use throughout its life. This level of usage is consistent with normal commuting or mixed driving, meaning consumable wear on items like discs and pads should be expected to follow a fairly standard degradation pattern rather than being disproportionately aged. For a prospective buyer, the priority areas for physical inspection should focus on the front suspension and lighting system given the recorded defects. The offside front anti-roll bar ball joint was flagged as excessively worn at the most recent test, and this component directly affects handling stability and cornering composure. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or rattling from the front end over uneven roads or speed bumps, particularly when turning, and pay attention to any vagueness or shimmy through the steering wheel which can indicate worn anti-roll bar linkages or drop links. Additionally, inspect both front headlamps carefully to confirm main beam and dipped beam operation, check that the headlamp levelling mechanism functions correctly, and verify that the daytime running light is now operational. The headlamp aim being noted as too low and too far to the right alongside mention of front damage suggests the front bumper support, mounting panel, or headlamp bracketry may have sustained impact damage or loosening, so examine the panel gaps, headlamp alignment, and condition of the front panel for signs of repair or misalignment. Brake-related advisories are limited but worth noting, as rear brake discs were flagged as worn though not excessively in early 2024, and front tires were noted as worn close to the legal limit on both edges in 2025. On inspection, check the rear brake discs for any lipping or scored surfaces and confirm the condition of the front tyres including even wear across the tread, as edge wear can indicate suspension geometry issues or incorrect camber settings often associated with worn spring seats or top mounts. Finally, verify that the battery is securely mounted in its carrier following the 2024 minor defect, and confirm the position lamp colour is correct. A pre-purchase inspection on a lift would allow confirmation of the anti-roll bar ball joint replacement and a check for any underlying front subframe or suspension arm corrosion, which is particularly relevant given the vehicle's age.