2009 Toyota Verso 1.8L Petrol · GL09 VFN

The latest MOT test for the 2009 Toyota Verso was conducted on 2025-09-02, resulting in a pass despite the presence of two persistent advisories. Over the past six years, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or deterioration, with the most significant failure occurring in 2024-09-02 when a major defect was recorded for the near-side front anti-roll bar ball joint being excessively worn. This indicates a potential area of ongoing wear and tear, particularly in the suspension system, where the ball joint’s failure could lead to instability, uneven tyre wear, and potential steering play if left unaddressed. The supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning lamp not illuminating is also a recurring advisory, suggesting a potential fault in the airbag deployment mechanism that should be investigated to ensure passenger safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 147,254 miles at 17 years old represents an average annual usage of approximately 8,662 miles, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for its age. However, the lack of significant mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity does not necessarily mitigate the wear observed in the suspension components, particularly the ball joint and shock absorbers. Over time, high-mileage vehicles like this often develop issues in critical areas such as suspension bushings, anti-roll bars, and steering linkages due to continuous stress. The near-side front shock absorbers showing light misting of oil in multiple MOTs signals that these components may be degrading, potentially leading to reduced damping efficiency and increased road noise or clunking during cornering or over bumps. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the near-side front anti-roll bar ball joint failure recorded in 2024, which should be repaired promptly to prevent further suspension damage. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over rough roads, as these could indicate loose or worn components. Inspect the near-side front wheel for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the failing ball joint. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp not illuminating is a safety advisory that should be checked by a qualified technician to ensure the airbag system is operational in the event of a crash. Additionally, the offside front tyre showing wear close to the legal limit should be addressed immediately to avoid potential roadside breakdowns or safety hazards. Beyond these immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s age-appropriate components. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Inspect the front and rear tyres for uneven wear patterns, as well as any signs of dry rot or internal damage. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older vehicles may suffer from reduced capacity or corrosion in terminals, which can lead to starting issues or electrical failures. The brake system should be examined for signs of corrosion on discs and pads, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can cause binding calipers or reduced braking performance. Finally, consider scheduling a service check to confirm that all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation, as fluid age can significantly impact engine and drivetrain longevity.