2009 Toyota Auris 1.4L Diesel · LG59 FKB

The 2009 Toyota Auris received its most recent MOT test on 2025-11-08, which was a clean pass with only a minor failure related to the near-side registration plate lamp and a single advisory concerning the near-side front track rod end ball joint exhibiting slight play. Despite these advisories, the vehicle’s overall MOT history over the past five years remains stable, with no repeated failures or severe defects, and no instances of critical roadworthiness issues. The advisories noted—particularly those related to track rod end ball joints and tyre condition—are common wear items that typically do not affect safety but warrant monitoring for progression. The absence of failures in prior years suggests that the maintenance regime has been consistent, though the advisories indicate areas where wear is beginning to approach or exceed service thresholds, necessitating proactive attention. The recorded mileage of 88,295 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents an annual usage rate of around 5,194 miles, which is notably lower than the typical wear rate for a car of this age. Such low mileage can reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored or used infrequently, which can lead to specific issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation over recent years suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions, which could otherwise accelerate wear on suspension components, brake systems, and drivetrain elements. This profile is less likely to reveal severe mechanical stress but may still require careful inspection for age-related degradation, such as tyre perishing or fluid ageing. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the track rod end ball joints and rear tyres should be the primary focus during a physical inspection and test drive. The slight play in the near-side front track rod end ball joint is a common sign of wear in the suspension bushings, which can lead to increased road noise, clunking when driving over bumps, or reduced handling stability if left unaddressed. During a test drive, listen for any irregular clunking or rattling from the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over rough surfaces, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The rear tyres showing slight cracking or perishing are indicative of age-related degradation, which can compromise grip and tread effectiveness, especially in wet conditions. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of dry rot or delamination, and ensure the tread depth is maintained above the legal minimum of 1.6mm, as the front tyres have already been noted to be worn close to this limit. Beyond the advisories, this vehicle’s low mileage and clean MOT history make it a suitable candidate for a thorough age-and-condition-specific inspection. Begin by examining the tyres for sidewall perishing, which can occur even with low mileage due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, swelling, or reduced cranking power, as standing vehicles can lead to battery discharge. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipe, as standing can accelerate rust formation. Verify that all fluid levels—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up and free from contamination, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Additionally, check the service book for any scheduled maintenance stamps, such as oil changes or suspension servicing, to ensure no critical intervals have been missed. Finally, conduct a visual and functional check of the suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and strut mounts, for signs of wear or damage, as these can degrade silently over time.