2002 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Petrol · KF02 FDN

The vehicle achieved a PASS at its most recent MOT test on 21 June 2025, though it was accompanied by two advisories relating to a minor exhaust gas leak and corrosion to the integral body structure which was not deemed to significantly reduce rigidity, alongside minor defects covering severe deterioration of the offside front driveshaft CV boot and slight defects to both front headlamp lenses. Looking at the broader pattern across the recorded tests, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with persistent and recurring concerns that a prospective buyer should not overlook. The same advisories regarding minor exhaust leaks, oil leaks, exhaust mounting defects, seat belt buckle damage, and surface corrosion have appeared repeatedly across multiple consecutive tests from 2021 through 2025, indicating a vehicle with ongoing age-related deterioration rather than one that has been progressively fettled between inspections. The failed test in June 2024 relating to seriously defective headlamp lenses and incorrect beam image was rectified, but the headlamp lens issues have reappeared as minor defects at the latest test, suggesting a continuing pattern of deterioration rather than a complete fix. The recorded mileage of 138,599 miles over approximately 24 years equates to an annual average of around 5,775 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such a figure typically reflects either genuinely light use, extended standing periods between journeys, or a combination of both. The MOT records do not show consistent annual mileage readings, which makes it difficult to identify specific gaps or rapid accumulations, but the overall low usage is mechanically significant. Prolonged standing periods accelerate corrosion on brake discs, brake callipers, and exposed underbody components, degrade the 12V battery through chronic partial discharge, cause tyre sidewall perishing and flat-spotting, and allow seals and gaiters to dry out and crack. The recurring advisories for perished rear shock absorber bushes noted in 2021, ongoing surface and structural corrosion, and severely deteriorated driveshaft gaiter observed in 2025 are entirely consistent with a low-mileage, age-dominated wear profile. Given the recurring defects evident in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should conduct a targeted physical inspection and test drive. The advisories for oil leaks and exhaust gas leaks should be investigated by inspecting the sump, cam cover, and exhaust joints for active seepage, and by listening on start-up and under load for any increase in exhaust noise, ticking from the manifold area, or smell of fumes inside the cabin. The offside front driveshaft CV boot recorded as severely deteriorated requires immediate attention; on a test drive, listen for a clicking or knocking noise from the front suspension area during full lock turns, and inspect the boot physically for tears and grease loss, as a failed gaiter left unrepaired will destroy the joint. The body and underbody corrosion advisories warrant a thorough examination on a ramp for any perforation of sills, chassis rails, or structural members, and the buyer should check that previous repairs have not been concealed by underseal. The brake system, given low annual mileage, should be checked for seized caliper slides and corroded discs, looking for uneven pad wear, a binding handbrake, or vibration under braking. For a 24-year-old vehicle with low recorded mileage, several age-based checks are essential regardless of the MOT history. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing even if the tread depth appears adequate, as old rubber hardens and loses grip, and the manufacturing date code on the sidewall should be reviewed. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid should be considered overdue for replacement on a calendar basis rather than purely on mileage, and the service history should be verified for evidence of regular annual servicing including cambelt and water pump replacement, which on a 2002 Yaris would typically be due every four to five years. The battery should be load-tested, as prolonged standing periods are particularly punishing on battery longevity. Finally, the headlamp lens defects should be visually checked for moisture ingress and condensation inside the lamp units, and the seat belt buckles, repeatedly flagged for damage and missing covers, should be confirmed to latch and release cleanly and reliably for safety.