2018 Toyota C-HR 1.2L Petrol · LR68 FSU

The most recent DVSA test on 19 September 2025 returned a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive immediate indicator of the vehicle's current roadworthiness. However, reviewing the broader history shows a pattern that warrants attention. The 2024 test recorded advisories for cracking and perishing on both rear tyres, and a major failure was issued for an ineffective nearside front wiper. The 2023 test also carried forward rear tyre perishing concerns along with front tyres worn close to the legal limit and an illuminated Tyre Pressure Monitoring System warning. Earlier 2022 was clear, but 2021 noted thinning front brake pads and brake fluid close to its minimum reservoir mark. The trajectory is not one of outright decline, but there is a recurring theme of rubber deterioration and brake component wear that suggests the car has been subject to the typical ageing effects of calendar exposure rather than purely mileage-driven wear. Against an eight-year chassis age, the recorded 45,782 miles equates to an annual average of roughly 5,723 miles, which is well below the national average and points to either predominantly short urban journeys, a secondary vehicle role, or extended periods of standing between uses. While low mileage preserves major mechanical assemblies such as the engine, transmission and clutch, it accelerates the degradation of items that age with time rather than use. Brake discs and calipers are prone to surface corrosion and seizing when rarely actuated, tyres suffer sidewall perishing from UV and ozone exposure, rubber suspension bushes harden and crack from inactivity, and fluids such as brake fluid, coolant and the 12V battery deteriorate on a calendar basis regardless of how few miles are covered. For a prospective buyer, a careful physical inspection should therefore focus on age-related deterioration as much as on mechanical wear. Inspect all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking, particularly on the rear axle where perishing has previously been flagged, and verify that the DOT date code is no older than around five years to ensure the rubber compound remains serviceable. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate perished anti-roll bar bushes or top mounts, and feel for any pulling under braking that may suggest a binding caliper from corrosion. Check that the wipers sweep the full swept area cleanly and confirm the brake fluid reservoir is comfortably above the minimum line, as the 2021 advisory suggested attention in that area. The brake fluid itself should ideally have been renewed every two years regardless of mileage, so verify this in the service history. Further checks should cover the auxiliary and traction systems, given the recorded TPMS advisory in 2023. Confirm the warning light is currently extinguished after a cold start and that all four sensors are functional, as replacement sensors can be costly. Pop the bonnet and inspect the 12V battery for any signs of low electrolyte, corrosion on the terminals, or a manufacturing date stamp older than five years, since low-mileage cars with frequent short trips are particularly prone to battery failure. Examine the brake discs for a pronounced lip at the outer edge and any uneven surface corrosion that might cause pedal shudder or grabbing under light application. Finally, ensure there is a fully stamped service book evidencing periodic brake fluid, coolant and oil changes at calendar-appropriate intervals, as adherence to time-based servicing is more important than mileage-based schedules for a vehicle of this usage profile.