2005 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · GR55 JRU

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-11 confirms the vehicle passed with no defects recorded, though it follows an unusual pattern of two consecutive failures in early 2026 and early 2025—both without any listed issues. This inconsistency suggests either a testing anomaly or a vehicle that narrowly avoided minor failings that didn’t escalate into reportable faults. The lack of advisories or recurring defects implies the tester did not identify any critical wear patterns, but the repeated failures without explanation warrant scrutiny. The most recent pass occurred just four months ago, which is acceptable for an annual test, though the abrupt failures raise questions about whether the vehicle was driven between tests or if the failures were procedural rather than mechanical. The recorded mileage of 58,997 miles over nearly 21 years equates to an average of roughly 2,800 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 10-month interval between the 2025 and 2026 tests—suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate certain forms of degradation, such as tyre degradation or suspension stiffness from prolonged weight-bearing. The mileage increments between tests (around 1,100 miles per year) are consistent but do not indicate aggressive use. However, the low mileage also implies the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary, potentially exposing components like suspension bushes or underbody parts to environmental corrosion. Given the lack of documented defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in older Toyotas with low mileage but prolonged standing. The repeated failures without explanation also necessitate checking for binding brake calipers or worn brake discs, as these are frequently overlooked issues that can cause test failures. Corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should be examined closely, as rust can compromise structural integrity without immediately affecting drivability. Finally, the condition of the exhaust system—especially at the rear mounts—should be verified, as this is another area where prolonged inactivity can lead to unsuspected failures.