2017 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Petrol · FN67 HHU

A clear pattern of age-related wear on the rear axle components emerges from the MOT history of this 2017 Toyota Yaris, with the same near-side rear shock absorber flagged for light oil misting across two consecutive tests and the rear tyres repeatedly noted for perishing and cracking over four successive examinations. The most recent assessment on 27 November 2025 recorded a pass alongside advisories for the same near-side rear shock absorber, the near-side rear tyre, and the offside rear tyre, mirroring the advisory profile seen at the November 2024 test almost exactly. This recurrence points to a chronic issue rather than a transient defect; shock absorber misting typically progresses to active weeping of hydraulic fluid, and rubber perishing on tyres advances towards sidewall cracking serious enough to warrant a failure. Six tests have been documented in total, all resulting in passes, and there are no recorded failures or dangerous defects, but the persistent advisory items indicate that the rear suspension and tyre compound are reaching a stage where proactive replacement is likely required before the next test. Against an age of nine years, the recorded mileage of 45,912 equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 5,101 miles, which is notably low and indicates either prolonged periods of low use or extended standing between journeys. There are no significant gaps in the testing record, with annual MOT entries from 2020 through 2025, which helps confirm continuous registration and avoids the multi-year lay-up scenario that can accelerate corrosion on brake discs, caliper slides, and underbody components. Mechanically, this low-mileage profile means the engine, transmission, and major drivetrain items are unlikely to have suffered heavy wear, but the extended standing periods can promote surface corrosion on brake discs, stiffening of suspension bushes and gaiters, and potential moisture ingress into brake hydraulic components. The relatively even mileage progression between tests also suggests the vehicle has been used consistently rather than abandoned and recommissioned, which is reassuring for general mechanical integrity. For a prospective buyer, the rear shock absorber and tyre advisories warrant close physical inspection before purchase. With light oil misting already recorded at two successive MOTs, the near-side rear damper should be examined for fresh seepage, and a test drive over uneven surfaces should be used to listen for clonking or excessive bouncing at the rear, as a deteriorating shock will struggle to control the unsprung mass over potholes and speed humps. The tyres, marked as slightly perished across all four positions over the years, should be inspected for visible sidewall cracking, bulging, or depth of tread, with particular attention to whether the cracking extends into grooves rather than remaining superficial. On the test drive, listen for any rear-end instability under braking, feel for pulling to one side which could indicate binding calipers from infrequent use, and pay attention to any knocking or rattling from the rear suspension that might suggest worn bushes given the low annual mileage. Given the low recorded usage, a thorough inspection of brake components is advisable despite the absence of any braking advisories on the MOT record. Check the brake discs for sharp ridges or significant surface rust, particularly after the vehicle has been standing, and confirm the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as rear drum or caliper mechanisms can seize with light use. Examine the underbody and suspension linkages for any surface corrosion, particularly around the rear subframe mounting points and brake pipe routing, where low-mileage vehicles that have seen winter road salt can still develop localised rust. Finally, verify that the cooling system, battery, and cabin filtration have been attended to during periods of low use, as standing vehicles can suffer from drained batteries and stale coolant, and confirm that any advisory items from the 2025 test have been addressed before relying on the vehicle for regular daily driving.