2016 Toyota Auris 1.2L Petrol · FN66 BVB

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 October 2025 resulted in a pass with only a minor defect noted, specifically an offside side repeater lens issue that has no bearing on emitted light. This represents a satisfactory current roadworthiness status; however, the wider MOT trajectory over the preceding three years paints a less reassuring picture. The 2024 test cycle included a failure on dangerous tyre tread depths, a major stop lamp defect, and a cluster of advisories highlighting front lower spring cup corrosion, rear lower suspension arm corrosion, and sub-frame corrosion. The 2023 examination similarly recorded advisories for multiple suspension arm pins or bushes showing wear on both front and rear axles, alongside tyre perishing. This recurring pattern of advisories concerning suspension component wear and structural corrosion suggests that while the vehicle remains legally roadworthy at present, it is on a gradually worsening maintenance trajectory, and prospective buyers should anticipate forthcoming attention to underbody and suspension components. With approximately 76,122 miles recorded over a ten-year life, this Auris is achieving close to 7,600 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and indicates consistent rather than sporadic use. The MOT records demonstrate reasonably steady annual testing with no substantial gaps, suggesting the vehicle has not been left standing for prolonged periods, which is generally favourable for mechanical condition. That said, the mileage is now entering a bracket where mid-life refurbishment of consumables becomes prudent, and the corrosion advisories recorded may reflect the cumulative effects of winter road salt exposure over many winters rather than outright neglect. Buyers should view the mileage as moderate, neither so low as to raise concerns about seized brakes or perished components from disuse, nor so high as to suggest imminent major drivetrain work. The recurring tyre-related advisories and failures are noteworthy. Across the 2021, 2023, and 2024 tests, there have been repeated instances of tyres reaching or falling below legal tread limits, with edge wear and cracking or perishing flagged. The 2021 dangerous failure involving an offside front tyre with ply or cords exposed is particularly concerning historically and suggests prior budgetary neglect of tyre maintenance. For a prospective buyer, a careful inspection of all four tyres is essential, checking for uneven shoulder wear which may indicate wheel alignment or suspension geometry issues, sidewall cracking from age-related rubber degradation even where tread depth appears acceptable, and confirmation that recent tyres are fitted. On a test drive, listen for excessive road noise which can indicate worn or mismatched tyres, and observe whether the vehicle tracks straight or pulls to one side. The suspension and underbody advisories warrant the closest physical scrutiny. The 2024 advisories concerning both front lower spring cups heavily corroded, rear lower suspension arms corroded, and sub-frame corrosion all relate to the vehicle's structural and ride-critical components. While classed as not seriously weakened at the time of test, corrosion of this nature progresses over time and a physical examination on a ramp or over an inspection pit would be highly advisable to assess current severity, particularly around spring seats and mounting areas. On a test drive, buyers should listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over bumps, which may indicate deteriorated top mounts or spring seats, and check for any wandering or instability at speed that could suggest worn bushes. Given the vehicle's age, it would also be prudent to verify the timing chain or belt service history depending on engine variant, confirm recent replacement of brake fluid and coolant which degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, and ensure the 12V battery is in good health as units of this age commonly fail without warning. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a competent independent garage is strongly recommended given the accumulating corrosion advisories.