2014 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · LL64 EEX

A pattern of rear brake imbalance and binding has emerged across two consecutive test cycles on this 2014 Toyota Aygo, marking it as the defining mechanical concern in the MOT history. The November 2024 test recorded both a major failure for the nearside rear service brake excessively binding and another major for rear brake imbalance across an axle, alongside the persistent minor registration plate lamp defect. The vehicle subsequently passed on the same date after rectification, and the November 2025 test returned a clean pass apart from the same minor lamp issue. However, the 2023 advisory noting rear brake imbalance requirements were only just met demonstrates that the braking concern had been developing prior to the 2024 failure, suggesting an ongoing wear or sticking caliper issue rather than a one-off event. Earlier suspension advisories on both front anti-roll bar linkage pins or bushes from 2023 also warrant attention, as worn linkages tend to progress once wear begins. With 52,174 miles recorded against a 12-year age, this Aygo has averaged roughly 4,348 miles per year, which is notably low for its class and age. The annual accumulation rate points to a vehicle that has either been used primarily for short urban journeys or has spent considerable time stationary between MOT tests. Lower annual mileage of this nature generally preserves engine and transmission internals, but can accelerate corrosion on brake discs through infrequent use, which aligns directly with the binding caliper and imbalance observations in the record. The MOT history is consistent year-on-year with no significant testing gaps, and the mileage progression appears steady rather than erratic, which supports a continuous but light-use ownership pattern. For a prospective buyer, the rear brake system should be the primary focus of any inspection. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or rubbing from the rear wheels when pulling away from a standstill, which can indicate a caliper that has continued to bind since the 2024 rectification. With the vehicle stationary, check whether the rear wheels rotate freely by hand when jacked, and feel whether either rear disc runs noticeably hotter than the other after a short drive, both of which are classic indicators of a sticking rear caliper. The nearside registration plate lamp should also be verified working, as the same minor defect has now appeared across three consecutive tests and may point to a loose connector or failed bulb holder rather than a simple bulb replacement. Regarding the front suspension advisories from 2023, listen for any knocking or rattling from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, which would indicate the anti-roll bar linkage pins or bushes have worn beyond the advisory threshold. Steering response should remain tight without excessive looseness or clonking during low-speed turns, as worn anti-roll bar components typically present as slack in the front end during directional changes. Given the low annual mileage, a thorough check for surface corrosion on the underbody, brake lines, and exhaust mounting points is also worthwhile, as cars used for predominantly short trips are more prone to underfloor oxidation despite their mechanical preservation. A pre-purchase inspection with the rear brakes removed for direct measurement of disc wear and caliper slide function would be a prudent investment before committing to purchase.