2024 Toyota Corolla Icon HEV CVT 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · LP73 VZF

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-13 resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has met all roadworthiness standards at that point. However, the overall maintenance history reveals a concerning pattern of defects and advisories, particularly within the past year. The vehicle failed its MOT on 2026-05-27 due to severe tyre defects—both the near-side rear tyre exhibiting a structural bulge indicative of internal ply separation, and the offside rear tyre showing deep cuts reaching the cords, which are critical failures requiring immediate replacement. These failures suggest either poor tyre management or underlying vehicle dynamics issues that may have contributed to premature tyre degradation. The subsequent MOTs in May and August 2026 were clean, but the absence of corrective action on the tyre defects raises questions about whether the vehicle has been properly maintained between tests or if the issues were overlooked. The advisory on the near-side front tyre worn close to the legal limit on the edge in January 2026 further highlights a pattern of tyre wear that warrants closer inspection, as edge wear can signal alignment or suspension misalignment. The recorded mileage of 61,415 miles for a vehicle that is approximately two years old represents a high annual usage rate of around 30,708 miles per year, which is unusually aggressive for its age. Typically, a two-year-old car with such mileage would be expected to have undergone more wear and tear on consumables like brakes, suspension components, and fluids, as well as potential stress on the CVT transmission and drivetrain due to sustained high loads. The rapid mileage accumulation could also imply that the vehicle is in heavy or frequent use, which may accelerate wear on components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and exhaust systems. Additionally, the lack of significant mileage gaps between tests suggests the vehicle is in regular, possibly demanding service, which may have contributed to the observed tyre failures and wear patterns. Without further context on operational conditions—such as towing, off-road use, or aggressive driving—it is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the tyre defects, but the combination of high mileage and repeated failures underscores the need for meticulous inspection and proactive maintenance. Given the history of tyre defects and the high mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the rear set first, as the previous MOT failures indicate severe issues there. Visually inspect the rear tyres for any remaining bulges, cracks, or signs of internal ply separation, and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal minimum (1.6mm) on all tyres. Listen for unusual noises during a test drive, particularly on bumps or uneven surfaces, which may indicate suspension component wear, such as clunking from worn suspension bushes or coil spring failures. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal misalignment, steering system issues, or binding calipers, all of which were implicated by the edge wear advisory. Additionally, verify that the vehicle’s brakes are functioning correctly, as the high mileage may have contributed to wear on brake discs, pads, or rotors. Inspect for any signs of brake shudder or pulsation, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which would signal worn brake pads or metal-on-metal contact. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also address the broader maintenance needs suggested by the vehicle’s age and usage. Given the high mileage, check the condition of the CVT transmission fluid, which should be replaced according to Toyota’s recommended interval—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. Inspect the engine oil and filter for signs of contamination or degradation, and ensure the coolant system is free of leaks or corrosion, as standing fluids can degrade over time. Verify the battery health, especially if the vehicle has been in use with frequent starts and stops, as a failing 12V battery can lead to electrical gremlins and poor performance. Finally, examine the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity, as high mileage can accelerate wear on catalytic converters and mufflers. If the vehicle has been in heavy use, consider a detailed inspection of the suspension, including the struts, shocks, and control arms, to preemptively address potential failures that could compromise handling and safety. The buyer should also review the service history for any missing or delayed maintenance, particularly around fluid changes and tyre rotations, which are critical for long-term reliability.