2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · MH65 FFB

The 2016 Toyota Yaris received its latest MOT test on 20 September 2025, which resulted in a passing grade despite a previous failure just two weeks prior. This inconsistency suggests a pattern of tyre wear issues that have persisted over the past five years, with the 2025 failure being the most severe—indicating a dangerous under-tread condition that required immediate rectification. While the intervening MOTs have shown no defects, the recurring advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear close to the legal limit and front brake components wearing thin—highlight a maintenance trend that has not been fully resolved. The vehicle’s overall roadworthiness is currently stable, but the historical advisories imply ongoing wear that could escalate if not addressed promptly, especially given the age and mileage of the car. The recorded mileage of 46,259 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 4,626 miles per year, which is far below the typical expectations for a car of this age. Such low mileage often suggests prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or kept in a low-traffic environment. However, this usage profile can mask underlying issues, as standing vehicles are prone to specific wear patterns—such as brake corrosion from moisture exposure, suspension binding from lack of movement, and potential fluid degradation due to stagnation. The low mileage also means that consumables like brake pads and tyres may have reached their operational limits more quickly than one might expect, given the advisories suggest they have already been worn beyond recommended thresholds. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front tyres, brakes, and suspension, as these have been flagged repeatedly. The nearside and offside front tyres show significant wear close to the legal limit, with the 2025 failure indicating a dangerous under-tread condition that must be corrected immediately. On a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or camber issues, and check for excessive vibration or pulling to one side, which may indicate worn tyres or suspension components. The front brake pads are also critically thin, with the discs showing signs of pitting and scoring, which could lead to reduced braking performance or even failure if not serviced soon. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers, as standing corrosion can cause discs to stick or seize, leading to uneven braking and potential failure. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and low mileage warrant a thorough inspection of the following components: the suspension system, particularly the front suspension arms and bushes, which have been noted as worn but not excessively; the brake system, including the rear brakes and fluid condition, as standing can cause moisture ingress and corrosion; and the overall structural integrity, especially if the car has been stored in damp conditions. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can indicate age-related degradation that may compromise safety. Additionally, verify the 12V battery health, as prolonged disuse can lead to a dead battery or weakened starter motor. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced within the recommended intervals for its age, consider checking the service book for any missed maintenance, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and fluid top-ups, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the buyer proceeds, they should prioritise addressing the tyre and brake issues first, followed by a comprehensive inspection of the suspension, fluids, and electrical systems to ensure the vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.