2007 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · FT07 RXM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-09-01 was not conducted, but the vehicle’s historical record reveals a pattern of recurring, often critical failures and advisories that have not been fully resolved. The most serious issues—particularly the binding front brake calipers from the 2023-01-16 test and the severely weakened front brake discs—demonstrate a persistent mechanical problem that has not been addressed, despite multiple MOTs passing or failing. The repeated corrosion advisories on the sub-frames and chassis, alongside the corroded rear suspension arm and shock absorbers with reduced damping, suggest a vehicle that has either been neglected in critical areas or has inherent structural wear from its age. While some advisories (such as the undersealing) appear to have been mitigated, the lack of progress on the binding calipers and brake disc condition raises concerns about the long-term reliability of the braking system, which is a fundamental safety requirement. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 146,813 miles at 19 years old reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,727 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation—without clear evidence of significant periods of disuse—suggests that the car has been driven regularly, placing greater demand on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components. The high mileage combined with the recurring MOT failures indicates that the vehicle has likely undergone substantial wear and tear, particularly in the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. The presence of a severely deteriorated constant velocity boot on the offside front drive shaft joint further underscores the need for closer inspection of the drivetrain, as this can lead to increased vibration, noise, or even catastrophic failure if not addressed promptly. Given the recurring critical failures and advisories, particularly the binding front brake calipers and severely weakened brake discs, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection before proceeding. The binding calipers will cause uneven brake pad wear, excessive heat build-up, and a pulsating or shuddering feel when braking, which could compromise stopping performance. The corroded rear suspension arm and shock absorbers with reduced damping will lead to uneven ride quality, clunking noises when driving over bumps, and potential instability at higher speeds. The corroded brake pipes and near-side rear tyre cuts—though not deep enough to reach the ply—indicate ongoing fluid leakage and tyre degradation, which could worsen if not repaired. Immediate attention should be given to the brake system, including disc and pad inspection, caliper lubrication, and brake fluid flush, as well as the suspension components for bush replacement or shock absorber renewal. Additionally, the corroded sub-frames and chassis require professional assessment to determine if structural integrity is compromised, especially given the 2022-10-03 failure highlighting excessive corrosion in critical mounting areas. For the buyer, this vehicle’s history demands a rigorous, hands-on inspection beyond the MOT records. During a test drive, listen for persistent clunking or rattling in the rear suspension, particularly when negotiating corners or over rough roads, as this may indicate failing suspension arms or bushes. Check the braking system for a spongy or uneven pedal feel, brake shudder, or excessive stopping distances, which could signal warped discs, binding calipers, or fluid contamination. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which may reveal suspension misalignment or camber issues, and verify that the near-side rear tyre cuts have not progressed further. The front headlamps and stop lamps must be tested for functionality, as the 2023-01-16 failure highlighted a dangerous condition where the front brake performance was not tested due to binding calipers, underscoring the need for a full functional check. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, consider a full fluid service—including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—due to calendar-based degradation, and check the 12V battery for signs of weakness, as older batteries in high-mileage vehicles often fail unexpectedly. If the buyer is concerned about the structural corrosion, a professional inspection to assess the integrity of the sub-frames and chassis is essential before purchase.