2002 Toyota Celica 1.8L Petrol · HJ02 APX

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding surface-level corrosion and component degradation. The most recent test in October 2025 at 54,235 miles flagged general underbody corrosion and significant corrosion across both the front and rear suspension components. While the car passed, the recurring nature of these issues over the last three years indicates that the vehicle is suffering from environmental damage and lack of use rather than mechanical wear from high-mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,260 miles per year. Between June 2021 and November 2022, the car covered only 161 miles, suggesting it sat stationary for long periods or was used very sparingly. This low usage explains the persistent pitting and scoring on the brake discs and the perishing of the tyres noted in the 2024 and 2025 tests, as rubber and metal surfaces degrade through oxidation when not without regular operation. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody to assess the structural integrity of the mounting points. The tester previously noted corroded rear coil springs in 2023 and persistent corrosion on the suspension geometry by 2025, which can lead to structural failure if the rust penetrates the metal. The tyres should be checked for deep cracking in the sidewalls, as the record flags them for perishing in consecutive years due to age rather than tread depth.