2009 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · FP59 HRO

A pattern of front suspension wear is the defining mechanical theme in this Aygo's MOT history. The January 2023 test recorded a Major defect for an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm pin or bush and a Dangerous failure for a fractured front anti-roll bar attachment bracket, both of which are safety-critical items that can seriously compromise handling and stability. Since that rectification, the record shows passes at each subsequent annual test, with the 2024 inspection downgrading the suspension arm wear to an advisory rather than a failure and both 2025 and 2026 tests returning clean sheets. The transition from a Dangerous defect in 2023 to two consecutive pass-with-no-advisories results suggests the underlying component has been replaced and is presently holding within tolerance, but the recurrence of advisory-level arm pin/bush wear in 2021 and 2024 indicates this is an area that warrants ongoing attention rather than something to assume has been permanently resolved. Against a 17-year vehicle age, the recorded 62,071 miles equates to roughly 3,651 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this type. The MOT tests are recorded annually from 2020 through 2026 with no gaps, indicating the car has remained in continuous use and has been presented for inspection every year, which reduces the risk of long-term lay-up issues such as seized brake calipers, perished coolant hoses, or deteriorated fuel system components. That said, low annual mileage combined with predominantly short-trip urban use, which is typical for an Aygo, can still produce uneven wear patterns: brake discs and pads corrode and glaze from infrequent heavy braking, tyres develop flat spots or sidewall cracking, and rubber suspension components harden prematurely from prolonged static loading. The 2021 advisories for pitted front brake discs and edge-worn front tyres are consistent with exactly this kind of usage profile, and a buyer should anticipate that similar consumables may again be approaching replacement. Given the documented suspension history, a prospective buyer should treat the front axle as the priority inspection area. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, particularly from the nearside where the Major defect was previously recorded, and feel for any vagueness, clunking through the steering wheel, or inconsistent self-centring that could indicate worn anti-roll bar linkages or droop bushes. Visually inspect the front subframe, anti-roll bar mounting brackets, and suspension arm bushes for cracks, splitting rubber, or any signs of fresh welding or recent replacement that might suggest a repair rather than a factory-fresh component. The brake pedal should feel firm without excessive travel or judder under firm application, and the vehicle should pull up in a straight line without steering pull, as binding rear calipers were advisory in 2024. Beyond the suspension, the 2021 advisories for front brake disc pitting and edge-worn tyres point to consumables that will inevitably require budgeting. On inspection, run a finger along the outer and inner edges of the front brake discs to feel for a pronounced lip or stepped wear, and check both front tyres for uneven shoulder wear, which can indicate worn suspension geometry as much as incorrect inflation. Inspect the rear brakes for any residual binding by confirming the wheels rotate freely by hand when cold after the car has been stood, as the 2024 advisory suggested some sticking. Under the bonnet, check for oil leaks around the cam cover and from the bottom of the engine, look at the coolant and brake fluid for discoloration or low levels, and examine rubber boots on the steering rack and driveshafts for splits. Finally, verify that the original fractured anti-roll bar bracket has been properly replaced rather than merely welded, as a substandard fix to a load-bearing mounting could reintroduce a Dangerous failure at the next test.