2007 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Petrol · LR57 LWV

A pattern of progressive wear and corrosion runs through the MOT record, with several safety‑critical failures interspersed among otherwise passing tests. The 2025 MOT returned a pass but flagged blue‑smoke from the exhaust, slight vertical movement at the stub axle, and corrosion of the rear axle – issues that echo earlier advisories on coil‑spring corrosion, tyre edge wear and a split CV boot. Earlier failures for an ABS warning lamp, off‑side headlamp aim and a split front outer drive‑shaft joint underline a history of component fatigue that has not yet escalated to outright rejection, yet the recurrence of corrosion‑related notes suggests a lingering structural vulnerability. At 98,116 mi over 19 years the average annual mileage sits around 5,200 mi, well below the typical UK usage rate. Low mileage can mitigate cumulative wear on engine and transmission parts, but the MOT history shows that even with modest use the vehicle has accumulated significant tyre edge wear and corrosion on suspension elements. The repeated tyre‑wear advisories despite low mileage may point to alignment drift, uneven loading or aggressive cornering, while the corrosion notes on rear axle and coil springs hint at periods of inactivity that allowed moisture ingress. Mechanically, the low‑mileage profile does not guarantee the longevity of rust‑prone components and may mask hidden fatigue. Prospective buyers should give the rear axle and suspension a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any rust flaking or pitting around the axle beam and check that the stub axle shows no play when the wheel is rocked vertically and laterally; any looseness could indicate worn bushings or compromised mounting points. Examine the coil springs for cracks, rust streaks or loss of integrity, and listen for knocking or clunking over bumps, which would suggest deteriorating bushings or broken springs. Tyre edges should be inspected for uneven wear patterns that could betray mis‑alignment or worn suspension arms, and a professional wheel‑alignment check is advisable before committing to the car. The exhaust blue‑smoke advisory warrants a compression test and a visual check for oil on the exhaust manifold or inside the cylinder head, as oil burning can quickly deteriorate engine health. The ABS warning lamp recorded in 2023 should be diagnosed with a scan tool to confirm whether the fault lies in a wheel‑speed sensor, wiring harness or the control module; the light must be extinguished before the vehicle can be considered safe in wet conditions. The split CV boot noted in 2021 should be examined for grease leakage and joint play; any clicking or whine while turning would confirm impending joint failure. Finally, the off‑side headlamp aim being too low and the product on the headlamp lens should be corrected to ensure adequate illumination and compliance with lighting regulations. Addressing these items before purchase will clarify whether the vehicle’s underlying structure remains sound despite its mixed MOT history.