2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · FN66 BZP

The 2016 Toyota Yaris has passed its most recent MOT test on 2025-09-11 with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures. While the vehicle’s MOT history displays a pattern of recurring issues—particularly with side repeaters, windscreen washers, and front and rear brake components—these failures have been intermittent rather than progressive, suggesting that the vehicle has undergone corrective maintenance or adjustments. The most critical failures in recent years were related to functional defects in the side repeaters and windscreen washers, which are straightforward to rectify and do not indicate underlying mechanical degradation. The advisories on brake pad and disc wear, along with the rear brake imbalance advisory, point to routine maintenance needs but do not currently pose an immediate roadworthiness risk. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with no evidence of worsening structural or functional failures beyond the expected wear associated with its age and usage. The recorded mileage of 74,837 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,484 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage does not inherently suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected from normal operation, though it does imply consistent use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity. A key consideration is whether the vehicle has been subjected to aggressive driving conditions, such as frequent hard braking, which could accelerate brake component wear. Additionally, if the mileage accumulation was rapid over a short period, it might indicate higher-than-average stress on the drivetrain, suspension, or exhaust system components. However, without specific data on driving habits or service records, the mileage alone does not definitively signal wear beyond what is standard for this age and usage profile. Given the MOT history and the vehicle’s age and mileage, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address both current advisories and potential long-term risks. Focus first on the braking system, as the advisories on thin brake pads and worn discs indicate that the pads may need replacement soon, and the rear brake imbalance suggests a need for brake hardware adjustment or potential caliper binding. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations under braking, or grinding noises, which could signal warped discs or seized calipers. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, pitting, or corrosion, and check for uneven wear patterns on the tyres that might indicate brake drag or misalignment. The side repeaters and windscreen washers, which failed in previous MOTs, should be tested for functionality—ensure the repeaters illuminate properly and that the washers dispense adequate liquid—before purchase. Beyond the immediate advisories, buyers should verify the suspension components, particularly the front suspension arms and their bushings, which showed wear in the 2023 MOT. Look for excessive play in the suspension when the vehicle is lifted off the ground, or listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil springs. Check for uneven tyre wear, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can be a precursor to blowouts, especially in a vehicle of this age. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, examine the battery for signs of corrosion or poor connections, and test its charge capacity by attempting to start the engine and monitoring the alternator’s output. Finally, since the vehicle has been driven over ten years, consider checking the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to Toyota’s recommended service intervals, even if the vehicle has not been serviced recently. A thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity is also advisable, as the mileage and age may have contributed to wear or corrosion in this area.