2008 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · LS58 LKC

The latest MOT test on 2026-09-01 revealed two major failures: an ABS fault indicated by the anti-lock braking system warning lamp and a non-functional near-side rear position lamp. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, which predominantly showed either clean passes or minor advisories, particularly around tyre wear and suspension components. The trend since 2022 has been relatively stable, with only one advisory in 2022 regarding offside front suspension arm wear, suggesting that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness, the recent failures indicate a potential deterioration in critical systems—particularly the ABS and rear position lamp circuitry—that warrant immediate attention. The presence of a major ABS fault could also point to underlying issues in the hydraulic or electronic control units, which may require professional diagnosis to prevent further degradation of braking performance. The recorded mileage of 90,500 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 18 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 5,028 miles per year, which is far below the average for its age. Such low mileage often suggests prolonged periods of inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as corrosion from standing, fluid degradation from stagnation, or wear from infrequent use of critical components. For example, standing brakes can cause corrosion on brake discs and calipers, leading to binding or reduced braking efficiency, while suspension components may suffer from dry friction or premature wear if not regularly activated. Additionally, fluids like brake fluid, differential oil, and coolant can degrade over time due to evaporation or chemical breakdown, even with minimal movement, necessitating a thorough inspection of these systems. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect immediately are the anti-lock braking system and rear position lamps, given their recent MOT failures. Begin by checking the ABS warning light persistence—if it remains illuminated after the ignition is switched off, this suggests a persistent electrical or sensor issue, potentially requiring a full ABS diagnostic test. Listen for unusual braking noises, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate worn ABS sensors or failing calipers. Next, verify the rear position lamp functionality by ensuring it illuminates simultaneously with the side lamps when the vehicle is stationary, as a non-functional lamp could impair visibility and legal compliance. Beyond the MOT failures, examine the suspension for any signs of excessive play or binding, particularly around the offside front suspension arm, as the 2022 advisory suggests wear that may have progressed further. For the vehicle’s age and low mileage, focus on long-term wear and age-related degradation rather than high-mileage stress. Inspect the front tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially if the vehicle has been stored in adverse conditions. Check the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, poor connections, or reduced cranking power, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate these issues. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, pitting, or binding, particularly on the near-side rear, where standing corrosion is more likely to occur. Verify that all fluids—brake fluid, differential oil, coolant, and power steering fluid—are at the correct levels and free of contamination or discoloration, as time-based degradation can lead to system failures. Finally, review the service history for any missing or outdated service stamps, particularly for fluid replacements and component replacements such as suspension bushes or brake pads, to ensure the vehicle has been maintained in line with its age and usage profile.