2018 Toyota C-HR 1.2L Petrol · LS18 EFC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 21 October 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory that the front brake pads were approaching the minimum thickness and that some front items had been removed from the examiner’s view. Earlier in the series there were two failures – a headlamp fault and mis‑aligned washer jets in 2023 and a combination of headlamp and repeater defects in 2022 – both of which appear to have been remedied, as the subsequent tests in 2024 and 2025 were successful. Overall the maintenance trend shows a shift from recurring electrical and lighting faults to a more stable condition, with the current focus on wear items such as the brake pads, suggesting the vehicle’s overall upkeep is now improving. At 53,784 miles on an eight‑year‑old 2018 Toyota C‑HR the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,700 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope. The mileage record does not reveal any periods of high‑speed accumulation or sudden spikes that would accelerate wear on major components, but the relatively low annual figure does imply that the car may have spent extended periods stationary. Prolonged standing can promote tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings, so these age‑related factors merit particular attention despite the modest mileage. The recurring advisory concerning the front brake pads means a visual inspection of the pad thickness and the condition of the accompanying discs is essential; look for scoring, glazing or uneven wear that could cause brake shudder or a pulsating pedal under hard braking. Given the rear tyre perishing note from 2023, examine both rear tyres for sidewall cracks, tread delamination and check the DOT code to confirm they are not beyond six years old, as perishing rubber can lead to sudden loss of grip, especially in wet conditions. Verify that the washer jets now deliver a steady spray to the windscreen and that the headlamps are correctly aimed and illuminate fully on both dipped and main beams – any dimming, flicker or mis‑aim can indicate failing bulbs, wiring faults or a deteriorating reflector. During a test drive, listen for any clunk or squeak from the suspension, feel for steering pull or vibration that might point to worn bushings, coil springs or tyre irregularities, and ensure the steering feels tight with no excessive play. Because the car has been lightly used, age‑related maintenance is the next priority. Inspect the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than four years may struggle in cold weather. Examine the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for signs of contamination or loss of colour, as fluids degrade over time even when mileage is low, and consider a full service if the service book shows gaps. Finally, check the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure that any rust is surface‑level rather than structural. A thorough visual and tactile inspection combined with a careful drive will reveal whether the vehicle’s age‑related wear has been properly managed and if any imminent component replacement is required.