2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · GL12 FJD

The latest MOT test on the 2012 Toyota Yaris was conducted on 2026-05-18 and resulted in a passing grade, with the vehicle displaying a generally stable maintenance profile over the past four years. While there were no major failures in this most recent inspection, the advisory items—particularly the brake disc wear, tyre cracking or perishing, and the central exhaust mounting defect—demonstrate a pattern of recurring concerns that warrant careful attention. The vehicle’s history shows a mix of passed and failed MOTs, with the most significant issue in 2024 being the dangerous failure of the near-side rear tyre due to insufficient tread depth, which highlights the need for ongoing vigilance in tyre management. The absence of repeated major defects suggests that while the car has faced some wear-related advisories, it remains roadworthy when addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 102,829 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,345 miles, which is typical for this model’s age and usage profile. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear beyond what is expected from regular driving, but it does imply that certain components—particularly tyres, brakes, and suspension—have accumulated wear over time. The presence of tyre cracking or perishing advisories in multiple MOTs suggests that the tyres may have been subjected to prolonged exposure to environmental conditions, such as UV degradation or uneven wear patterns, which can accelerate sidewall deterioration. Additionally, the central exhaust mounting defect from 2025 indicates a potential issue with structural integrity or mounting hardware that could, if ignored, lead to further exhaust system failures or emissions-related problems. For prospective buyers, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the tyres, brake system, and suspension. The advisories regarding tyre cracking or perishing on both near-side and off-side rear tyres in several MOTs indicate that the vehicle may have experienced uneven loading or prolonged static conditions, leading to accelerated sidewall degradation. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, check for uneven wear patterns, and visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking, perishing, or dry rot, which can compromise safety and handling. The brake discs showing wear but not excessive levels in the latest MOT suggest that the braking system is functioning but may benefit from a thorough inspection, particularly the caliper operation and brake fluid condition. Listen for any grinding noises during braking, which could indicate worn brake pads or metal-to-metal contact, and check for uneven brake pedal travel or sponginess, which may signal fluid degradation or hydraulic issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also pay attention to the vehicle’s standing conditions and calendar-based maintenance. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories related to the central exhaust mounting and potential corrosion risks, it is advisable to inspect the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural weaknesses, especially if the car has been stored in damp or salty environments. The near-side front fog light not working in previous MOTs suggests a potential electrical issue, so test all exterior lighting systems, including indicators and hazard lights, to ensure they are functioning correctly. Additionally, since the vehicle has accumulated significant mileage, consider checking the 12V battery health, as older batteries can fail more readily under high demand. Finally, verify that service records are up to date, particularly for fluid servicing such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. A thorough inspection of the suspension for signs of worn bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers is also recommended, as these components can degrade with age and contribute to handling issues.