2017 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Petrol · HG17 GHH

The latest MOT test for the 2017 Toyota Yaris, conducted on 2026-06-16, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive conclusion to a maintenance history that has otherwise shown stability. While the vehicle has not encountered any failures in the past two years, the advisory from the 2024 MOT—indicating a near-side rear wheel bearing with slight noise—suggests a developing but contained issue that has not yet escalated to a critical level. The absence of repeated failures or advisories in the intervening years implies that the vehicle has generally maintained roadworthiness, though the bearing noise warrants closer attention as mileage accumulates. The front brake pad wear advisory from the 2023 failure, though resolved by the time of the 2024 test, remains a reminder that brake systems require periodic monitoring, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the potential for gradual wear progression. The recorded mileage of 70,437 miles for a nine-year-old Yaris reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,826 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. This usage pattern suggests a balance between regular driving and periods of inactivity, which can influence wear rates on components like the wheel bearings, brakes, and suspension. The absence of significant mileage spikes or abrupt increases over the past few years supports the likelihood that the vehicle has been driven consistently without extreme wear accelerators such as heavy towing or aggressive driving. However, the bearing noise advisory from 2024, combined with the vehicle’s age, indicates that the wheel bearing may be approaching the end of its serviceable life, and further deterioration could lead to bearing failure, which would manifest as increased noise, vibration, or even wheel wobble during acceleration or braking. For the prospective buyer, the most critical inspection focus should be on the rear wheel bearing condition, particularly the near-side bearing, which has exhibited noise. On a test drive, listen for persistent grinding or humming from the rear wheel during acceleration, deceleration, or cornering, and check for any associated vibration or play in the wheel. If the bearing is failing, it may also cause uneven tyre wear or a slight pull to one side. Additionally, given the front brake pad wear history, inspect the front brakes for even wear on both pads and discs, checking for any signs of glazing, scoring, or uneven thickness. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, warping, or binding, which can occur if the vehicle has been left stationary for prolonged periods, leading to moisture-induced rust. Test the brake pedal for firmness and ensure there is no sponginess or excessive travel, which could signal fluid degradation or internal brake component failure. Beyond mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and usage profile necessitate several practical inspections. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stored in a damp or extreme climate. Check the tyre tread depth for uniform wear and ensure there are no signs of dry rot or internal damage. Verify the 12V battery health by testing the starting system, listening for any electrical whining or clicking noises when attempting to start the engine, and checking for corrosion on the battery terminals. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as these components can degrade over time. Finally, consider the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluid, as these should be checked for time-based servicing, especially given the vehicle’s age. If the service history is incomplete, request confirmation of scheduled maintenance such as oil changes, suspension inspections, and brake servicing to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition.