2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · GD66 SFX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 22 July 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a broadly positive compliance record. Looking across the recent history, the only item of any note is a recurring minor defect relating to the offside obligatory mirror being slightly damaged, which has been flagged in both the 2023 and 2024 tests before disappearing from the most recent examinations. This consistency suggests it was a cosmetic issue that was either rectified or no longer considered relevant by the inspector. The 2024 test also noted two nail-in-tyre advisories at the rear, which appear to have been resolved given the clean 2025 and 2026 results. There are no recurring mechanical advisories, structural corrosion issues, brake wear flags, or exhaust emissions concerns, and the overall trend can therefore be regarded as stable and well-maintained rather than showing any progressive deterioration. With 32,742 miles recorded over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged just 3,274 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical annual mileage for a car of this age. This unusually low usage rate, while potentially reflecting careful light use, also raises the probability that the vehicle has spent extended periods standing. Such low-mileage scenarios in older vehicles frequently lead to age-related component degradation rather than wear-related failure, and particular attention should be paid to rubber and electrical items that deteriorate primarily with calendar age rather than mechanical use. From a practical inspection standpoint, the tyres warrant close physical examination regardless of MOT results, given the vehicle's age and the historical advisories for cracking and perishing on the rear tyres in 2021. Check the sidewalls and tread for any signs of perishing, hairline cracking, or bulging, and consider replacement if the tyres are approaching or beyond the standard tread depth regardless of appearance, as ten-year-old rubber can lose its structural integrity. The braking system should be examined for seized or binding calipers and corrosion on the discs, particularly as a vehicle that has stood for long periods can develop surface rust that has subsequently welded pistons in place. On the test drive, listen for any scraping, grinding, or pulling to one side under braking, and verify that the handbrake holds firmly without excessive travel, as this would confirm the rear caliper mechanisms are functioning correctly. Further age-related checks should include verification of the 12V battery condition and its date stamp, as batteries beyond five years of age are prone to sudden failure, particularly in low-mileage vehicles that may not receive regular prolonged charging cycles. Inspect the engine bay for any signs of perished hoses, weeping coolant joints, or oil seepage from gaskets and seals, which can become evident through age alone. Verify that the service book contains stamps or digital records confirming recent replacement of engine oil and filter, brake fluid, and coolant, since time-since-last-change is as critical as mileage for fluid degradation. Finally, inspect the underside and suspension components for any standing-related corrosion on exposed metal, check that the coil springs and suspension bushes remain free from cracking or perishing, and confirm that all interior and exterior electrical systems, including the previously flagged offside mirror, operate as intended.