2009 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · GJ09 KVT

The vehicle has accumulated 118,096 miles over approximately 17 years, equating to roughly 6,950 miles per annum which aligns with moderate daily driving but masks the fact that the engine and drivetrain have been under sustained load. The spacing between MOT tests reveals irregular intervals—from March 2022 to March 2023 being nearly a full year, then back to February-March 2024, and finally just two months apart again in early 2026—which suggests the ownership may have experienced periods of infrequent use punctuated by longer stretches of active driving. This usage pattern places particular stress on the suspension system through repeated flexing cycles and accelerates wear on the driveline components, which explains the documented corrosion readings on both the nearside and offside rear coil springs across multiple assessments. The repeated advisories regarding nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins and bush wear indicate progressive deterioration of the upper control arm assemblies and their pivot points. On a test drive, the buyer should pay close attention to whether the suspension feels stiff or develops creaking noises when encountering potholes or rough pavement, particularly during cornering where the front lower arms bear the brunt of the load. Excessive play in the suspension bush seals will manifest as a clunking or knocking sensation over bumps, and worn bush materials often produce a grinding noise that becomes audible at speed. Given the documented corrosion on rear coil springs, inspecting the rear suspension geometry for uneven wear or visible rust along the spring mounting points will help determine if the entire rear end requires resurfacing or replacement of the coil springs themselves. The central exhaust system insecurity noted in the 2024-03-13 failed test represents another area requiring immediate attention, though it does not appear on the most recent 2026-03-03 record. If present, this could cause leaky joints or incomplete exhaust closure, leading to increased backpressure and potential overheating under load. Additionally, the 2026-03-03 failure included a non-working front position lamp, which while cosmetic, confirms that electrical systems are functioning intermittently and warrants checking the main electrical harness for continuity issues. For a practical pre-purchase check, the buyer should verify that all suspension components move freely without binding, confirm the absence of coolant or oil leaks around the coil spring mounts, and ensure the exhaust manifold remains securely fastened without signs of rust or looseness at the clamps.