2010 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Petrol · ML59 CXM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 9 May 2022, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. This follows a failure on 20 April 2022 for all front and rear direction indicators, a fault that appears to have been remedied before the subsequent test. Earlier failures in 2015 and 2016 related to tyre condition and a faulty windscreen wiper were also resolved, and the intervening years show a series of clean passes. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as improving, with the owner addressing the identified faults promptly and maintaining a generally acceptable MOT record in recent years. With a recorded 19 500 miles on a 2010 model, the average annual usage is roughly 1 200 miles, well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage rather than intensive driving. While reduced wear on drivetrain components, brakes and suspension is a benefit, the converse risk is that components susceptible to ageing—rubber, seals, battery plates and corrosion‑prone metal—may have deteriorated despite the low mileage. Any gaps in the MOT chronology, such as the lack of recorded tests between 2018 and 2020, should be noted as potential windows where issues could have arisen unnoticed. Prospective buyers should verify that all direction indicators function correctly, as the 2022 failure suggests a possible underlying wiring or relay problem that could re‑appear. During a visual inspection, confirm that the indicator bulbs are the correct type and that the lenses are free of cracks or moisture ingress. On the road, listen for any intermittent flashing or a complete loss of signal when the steering wheel is turned, and test both front and rear lights under various conditions. In addition, examine the tyres for age‑related perishing: even with ample tread depth, sidewalls can develop dry‑rot after a decade, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Look for cracking, brittleness, or uneven wear that might indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, a thorough age‑related check is essential. Inspect the battery for sulphation, verify that it holds charge and that terminal corrosion is absent; a load test at a garage is advisable. Examine the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of cracking, excessive play or oil leakage, as rubber components can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Check the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear that may cause shudder under braking, and confirm that the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, ensure that all fluid levels—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—have been refreshed within the manufacturer’s time intervals, as fluids can deteriorate and lose protective properties even when the car is not driven heavily. A comprehensive test drive that includes steady cruising, gentle acceleration, braking and cornering will reveal any hidden faults before purchase.