2018 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric · MF68 FBU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 October 2025, was a pass but it was accompanied by several tyre advisories and the absence of the off‑side front wheel‑arch liner. Prior to that the vehicle failed its 5 October 2023 test on dangerous tyre conditions, yet it subsequently passed in September 2024 with no recorded defects. The trend therefore shows a clear improvement from a serious safety failure to a clean pass, albeit with lingering tyre‑related concerns that have not been fully resolved. With 23 401 miles recorded on a 2018 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 2 900 mi, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of infrequent use or extended storage, rather than heavy wear. While the low mileage reduces the expected fatigue on the engine, transmission, suspension and brake components, prolonged standing can accelerate tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of hidden bodywork and suspension joints. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set the highest priority. The near‑side front tyre shows edge‑wear and cracking, the off‑side front tyre is similarly damaged, and both front tyres are close to the legal tread limit. The near‑side rear tyre was previously below the 1.6 mm minimum and may still be approaching the end of its service life. Inspect all four tyres for dry‑rot, sidewall cracks, uneven wear patterns and verify that the tread depth on each wheel exceeds 3 mm to allow a safety margin. During a test drive listen for thumping or vibration that could indicate a tyre out‑of‑balance or a developing separation, and feel for any pull to one side that might suggest mismatched tyre diameters or worn suspension bushes. The missing front wheel‑arch liner should be replaced to prevent road‑debris ingress and corrosion of the inner body panels. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of inactivity, a thorough visual and functional check of the under‑body is advisable. Look for rust on the sills, chassis rails and suspension mounting points, and verify that the suspension bushes and coil springs are free of corrosion and excessive play. Examine the brake discs for surface rust or scoring and test the calipers for smooth, even movement without binding. A 12‑volt battery that has been idle for long stretches may need a load test or replacement, and all service fluids—engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and power‑steering fluid—should be inspected for colour, level and signs of degradation, with a view to a full fluid change if any are approaching the recommended service interval. Confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any timing‑chain service recommendations have been observed, even though the Yaris uses a chain rather than a belt. These checks will help ensure that the low‑mileage vehicle remains mechanically sound and road‑worthy.