2007 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · HD07 FDG

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 21 November 2025 with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive indicator of its current roadworthy status. However, examining the broader test history reveals a recurring pattern of wear-related advisories that a prospective buyer should weigh carefully. The 2024 test noted perished and split rear bushes on both front suspension arms, an issue that typically progresses with age and exposure rather than mileage, and could eventually lead to excessive play in the front suspension geometry. The 2023 test recorded a failed outcome due to a major exhaust leak, an inoperative management indicator lamp, and compromised emissions, although the vehicle subsequently passed later that month, suggesting timely repair. Across multiple tests from 2020 through 2022, advisories have consistently flagged corrosion to the rear brake hose ferrules and corrosion to the rear sub-frame, both of which warrant close physical inspection as they tend to advance progressively in older vehicles. The most concerning entry remains the September 2021 test, where two dangerous defects were recorded for the rear tyres, highlighting that tyre condition on this vehicle has previously been allowed to deteriorate to a legally unacceptable level. With 92,311 miles recorded over approximately 19 years, the Yaris has averaged around 4,858 miles annually, which is notably low and suggests either extended periods of standing or predominantly short journeys. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major drivetrain components but introduces its own concerns, including time-dependent degradation of rubber and polymer components, potential corrosion from infrequent use, and the risk of seized calipers or binding handbrake mechanisms. The relatively even progression of mileage across the recorded tests implies consistent if modest use, with no sudden accumulations that might indicate a long motorway commute or towing activity. Short journeys in particular can accelerate brake disc corrosion and cause the 12V battery to suffer from chronic undercharging, leading to premature failure of electrical components. Given the recurring advisories relating to the rear brake hose ferrules and the rear sub-frame corrosion, a physical examination should focus on these areas. The brake hose ferrules, where the flexible hose meets the rigid metal line, are susceptible to corrosion that can eventually compromise braking integrity, so a careful check for any seepage of brake fluid or visible rust bleed is essential, and a spongy brake pedal or pulling under heavy braking would suggest hoses require replacement. The sub-frame corrosion advisories have been consistent since 2020, and while not yet deemed seriously weakened, sub-frame corrosion in this age of vehicle can advance rapidly, particularly in coastal or winter-salted regions, so a thorough visual inspection underneath the vehicle, ideally on a ramp, is strongly recommended to confirm structural integrity. The perished front suspension bushes noted in 2024 should be re-examined for any further deterioration, as worn bushes typically produce clonking noises over speed humps and uneven or feathered tyre wear across the front tyres. Beyond the documented advisories, the age and low-mileage profile of this 2007 Yaris demands attention to several time-served components that may not appear on MOT records. Tyres fitted to a vehicle of this age should be scrutinised for sidewall perishing and cracking regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades with UV exposure and time, and any tyres older than six years from their DOT date stamp should be replaced. The exhaust system, having been repaired after the 2023 major leak, should be checked for any renewed signs of corrosion or blowing, particularly at joints and mounting rubbers, which can fail from age-related embrittlement. Brake discs are likely to exhibit surface corrosion from standing, and although light oxidation is normal, severely pitted or lipped discs indicate the need for replacement. Engine coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil are all time-limited consumables that should have been renewed according to calendar intervals rather than mileage, so verifying service history stamps and fluid condition is advisable. Finally, the 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries of this age frequently fail without warning, particularly after periods of inactivity, and a sluggish cranking or flickering dashboard lights on a test drive would confirm this concern.