2015 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · MA15 AAO

The 1.33-litre petrol Yaris is one of the more frugal superminis on the market, with real-world fuel economy typically in the 45–55 mpg range for mixed driving. Combined with a 42-litre tank, this gives a practical range of around 400–450 miles between fills. Road tax (VED) for a Euro 6 petrol of this age and engine size sits at the standard £195 annual rate, as this Yaris pre-dates the more expensive post-April 2017 tax regime.

Insurance for the 2015 Yaris 1.33 typically falls in groups 7–9, making it one of the cheaper options for younger or lower-mileage drivers. A typical 30-something driver with a clean licence might expect to pay £400–£600 annually, though quotes vary significantly by postcode. Routine maintenance is generally inexpensive, with an interim service (oil and filter) around £100–£150 and a full service around £180–£250 at an independent garage. Major items such as brake discs and pads on the front axle typically cost £150–£250 fitted.

The October 2024 MOT advisories are the most useful inspection starting point. Jack up the front of the car and check the front brake discs for lipping, scoring, or corrosion around the outer edge — if the discs haven't been replaced since the advisory, they will likely need doing soon. Also feel for the offside front caliper sliding smoothly; a binding caliper can cause uneven pad wear and pull the car under braking. Inspect the inner brake pad material visible through the wheel spokes for remaining thickness.

For the TPMS warning that has appeared at the last two tests, check all four tyres are inflated to the correct pressure (listed on the door jamb sticker) and then drive a short distance to see if the light extinguishes. If it persists, a diagnostic scan will identify which sensor has failed — replacement sensors typically cost £40–£100 each plus fitting. The model-level MOT failure data flags headlamp, tyre, and anti-roll bar issues as the most common failure points across 470,810 Yaris samples, so visually inspect both headlamp lenses for moisture or condensation, check tyre tread depth across the full width (not just the central tread), and listen for any knocking or clunking from the front suspension over speed bumps.

Finally, general checks for an 11-year-old supermini: look for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and rear hatch seam (the Yaris is generally resistant to rot but not immune), verify all electrics work including the air conditioning, and check for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. A cold start should be smooth and immediate — any hesitation or excessive smoke on startup warrants further investigation.