2009 Toyota IQ 1.0L Petrol · MJ09 CZG

The 2009 Toyota IQ presents a mixed mechanical picture at 110,393 miles. The most recent MOT on 9 September 2025 passed, but only after a failure on the same date that exposed several underlying issues. The maintenance trend is neither clearly improving nor worsening; it shows a pattern of recurring faults that are being addressed reactively rather than proactively. The tester flagged corroded rear coil springs in both 2024 and 2025, and a worn rear suspension trailing arm bush appeared across consecutive tests. A corroded nearside front brake pipe has been noted since at least September 2024, suggesting this component has been deteriorating for over a year without replacement. The vehicle passed its most recent test, but the history reveals a car where wear items and corrosion are accumulating faster than they are being systematically resolved. The mileage progression tells a straightforward story. Between the August 2023 test at 90,948 miles and the September 2024 test at 95,482 miles, the IQ covered roughly 4,534 miles in twelve months. From September 2024 to September 2025, it added approximately 14,911 miles, a significant jump that more than tripled the annual rate. This sharp increase in the most recent year suggests heavier use, possibly longer commutes or sustained motorway driving, which places greater stress on brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components. The overall annual average of around 6,494 miles remains typical for a 17-year-old city car, but the recent acceleration is worth noting when assessing current component wear. A buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension assembly. The repeated advisory for corroded rear coil springs is a structural concern, not merely cosmetic. Corroded springs can sag unpredictably or, in worst cases, fracture under load. The worn trailing arm bush flagged in both 2024 and 2025 indicates the rear suspension geometry may be compromised, which can cause uneven tyre wear and vague handling at speed. Inspect the rear underside thoroughly for fresh corrosion, cracking around spring seats, and any play in the trailing arm by attempting to lever the wheel fore and aft. The braking system also warrants a careful check. The nearside front brake pipe has been flagged for corrosion across two consecutive annual tests, and the September 2025 failure recorded worn rear brake pads below 1.5mm along with a lipped and pitted rear brake disc. These are consumable items, but the corroded pipe is a safety-critical concern that should have been replaced sooner. Have a mechanic inspect the full brake pipe run, particularly where corrosion is noted, and verify the condition of all discs and pads. The front tyres were worn close to the legal limit in the most recent tests, which, combined with the suspension wear, suggests the car may have been driven hard or neglected during its higher-mileage recent use.