2012 Toyota Auris 1.6L Petrol · LS62 HSA

The most recent DVSA MOT, carried out on 5 December 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. Over the preceding six‑year period the pattern shows a generally stable maintenance record, with recurring advisory notes on front‑tyre tread depth each year and a series of rear‑brake‑pad wear advisories that culminated in a dangerous failure in December 2023. The fact that the vehicle subsequently passed the 2024 and 2025 tests suggests that the brake‑pad issue was addressed, but the persistence of tyre‑wear advisories points to an ongoing consumable concern that should be monitored closely. At 99 951 miles the Auris has accumulated roughly 7 140 miles per annum over its 14‑year life, which sits squarely within the average usage envelope for a small family car of this age. There are no obvious gaps or periods of unusually high mileage that would imply severe over‑use, nor does the mileage appear artificially low, which can sometimes mask prolonged storage and attendant ageing of rubber and fluid components. The mileage level is consistent with the wear observed on the front tyres and the historical brake‑pad thinning, both of which are proportional to the distance travelled. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the condition of the four tyres. Verify the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm across the entire width and inspect the sidewalls for cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, especially given the vehicle’s age; tyre rubber can perish even on relatively low‑mileage cars when stored for long periods. Check for even wear patterns – any cupping, feathering or excessive wear on the inner or outer edges may indicate mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven camber, which would require a wheel‑alignment and possibly replacement of front‑end bushings. While on the road, listen for a hollow thump or clunk when passing over bumps, and feel for any pull to one side, both of which would corroborate suspension or steering issues. In addition to the tyres, confirm that the rear brake pads have been replaced since the 2023 failure; a visual inspection should show pads with a remaining thickness well above the 1.5 mm minimum, and the discs should be free of deep scoring or excessive rust. Test the brakes for a firm, progressive pedal feel without pulsation, and note any squeal that could indicate worn pads or glazed surfaces. Given the car’s age, inspect the battery for electrolyte level (if serviceable) and perform a load test to ensure it can sustain a cold‑crank; a weak battery is a common failure point in vehicles that have spent time standing. Finally, examine the under‑carriage for corrosion on the exhaust, chassis rails and suspension components, and verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at the recommended intervals, as time‑based fluid degradation can lead to reduced lubrication and increased wear even on modestly used engines. A full service history, particularly stamps confirming recent brake, tyre and fluid work, will provide the strongest reassurance of the car’s roadworthiness.