2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · ML12 VFN

The most recent MOT test recorded on 17 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but this outcome must be interpreted with considerable caution given that the same date also produced two separate failure entries containing Dangerous and Major category defects. The vehicle was ultimately presented for retest and cleared following rectification, but the underlying pattern across the last three test cycles shows a clear deterioration rather than stability. Recurring advisories on both front lower arm rear bushes have appeared at every test since 2023, brake pipe corrosion on both fronts has been flagged in 2023, 2025, and 2026, and a gearbox oil seal weep has now joined the advisory list. The dangerous brake pad failure in July 2026 together with a major rear brake pipe corrosion finding on the same date indicates that the braking system has reached a stage where age-related wear is outpacing routine servicing. Overall, the trend is worsening, and the advisories are best regarded as a forecast of imminent remedial work rather than minor cosmetic notes. With 87,178 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the vehicle is running at an average of around 6,200 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a Toyota Yaris of this generation and suggests consistent rather than sporadic use. There are no obvious mileage gaps indicating long periods of standing, which is generally favourable for avoiding severe underbody corrosion, brake caliper seizure, and battery degradation. However, the cumulative mileage is sufficient that normal consumable wear, suspension component fatigue, and drivetrain ageing should be expected. The mileage context alone does not raise serious concerns, but it does mean that items such as clutch operation, exhaust system integrity, and engine ancillary components should be examined with a mileage-appropriate level of scrutiny. On inspection, the buyer should pay close attention to the front braking system in light of the recent dangerous pad finding. Request evidence that the nearside front pads have been replaced and, ideally, that the offside front pads and both front discs have been inspected or renewed, since a worn or pitted disc was also flagged. Listen on test drive for any brake shudder through the pedal or steering wheel under firm application, which would indicate disc runout or uneven wear. Inspect the visible brake pipes, particularly along the nearside rear where corrosion was classified as excessive, and note that all four flexible and rigid brake lines on this vehicle are now candidates for renewal over the short to medium term. Examine the rear parking brake mechanism, as it has failed on the offside in both 2023 and 2026, suggesting a sticking cable, seized caliper mechanism, or adjuster issue that may require mechanical attention. The suspension system requires equally careful evaluation. Both front lower arm rear bushes have been repeatedly flagged as worn, and an anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover failure has escalated from a minor advisory in 2023 to a major defect in 2024, indicating progressive deterioration of the front anti-roll bar hardware. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, particularly from the front end, and feel for any vagueness or knocking through the steering during direction changes. The gearbox oil seal weep, although currently described as not excessive, should be monitored by placing clean card under the vehicle after a run and checking for fresh drips. Given the vehicle's age, a pre-purchase inspection should also include checks for tyre sidewall perishing regardless of tread depth, coolant and brake fluid condition with respect to calendar-based replacement intervals, 12-volt battery health under load, and a thorough examination of the underbody and wheel arches for corrosion that may not be visible during a standard MOT. Confirm that the service history is fully stamped and that recent work has addressed the braking, suspension, and tyre defects identified in the latest test records.