2002 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · LM52 AHN

Recurring structural and steering wear dominates the mechanical profile of this 2002 Toyota Yaris, which accumulated a total of eight recorded tests between 2017 and 2023, featuring two failures and a consistent accumulation of dangerous advisories. The most recent examination on May 2nd, 2023 resulted in a pass, but this followed a troubling escalation of steering defects, including dangerous advisories for play in both the near and offside front steering rack inner joints that had also been flagged during the 2022 test. Additional items noted during that latest test included worn front anti-roll bar pins or bushes, an insecure horn control, and rear brakes that failed to lock properly on both the service and handbrake, indicating a worsening trend in core steering and braking integrity rather than a stable, trouble-free history. With 98,021 recorded miles over its 24-year lifespan, the vehicle has averaged roughly 4,084 miles per year, representing a low annual usage pattern. This light operational cadence is further evidenced by testing gaps, such as the period between September 2018 and March 2020, as well as between April 2023 and the current date in September 2026. While lower mileage can sometimes reflect lighter physical use, the presence of recurring mechanical wear on high-stress components like steering rack inner joints and braking systems demonstrates that age-related degradation and component fatigue have progressed regardless of the low annual mileage accumulation. On a prospective test drive, a thorough inspection of the steering and front suspension is paramount given the repeated history of inner steering rack play and anti-roll bar bush wear. The buyer must listen closely for any metallic knocking, clunking, or excessive play when turning the steering wheel from lock to lock while stationary, and check for vagueness or wandering in the steering while driving at speed. Any looseness felt through the steering column or knocking over uneven road surfaces will confirm that the previously flagged rack joints and anti-roll bar mountings require immediate mechanical renewal. The braking system also demands close scrutiny during a physical inspection, referencing the 2023 advisories regarding rear service and handbrake locking deficiencies alongside the 2021 note that the offside rear service brake only just met requirements. During the test drive, evaluate the handbrake's holding ability on a steep incline and test the footbrake for a firm pedal feel without excessive travel or pull to one side. A visual check of the rear brakes should be performed to inspect the condition of the drums, shoes, and cables, ensuring that any lingering adjustment or repair needs identified in the MOT record have been fully resolved.