2018 Toyota C-HR 1.2L Petrol · NJ18 ABF

The most recent MOT on 8 May 2026 recorded a pass, but it was accompanied by three advisories concerning the off‑side rear outer tyre, the near‑side and off‑side front lower suspension arm bushes, and a separate failure for low headlamp aim on both front units. Earlier in the same session the headlamp aim was flagged as a failure, meaning the vehicle would not have been road‑legal until the alignment was corrected. Looking back through the last six years, the car has moved from serious safety failures – a dangerous rear tyre separation in 2025 and dangerously thin front brake pads in 2022 – to a situation where only minor wear items remain advisory. This indicates a clear improvement in the maintenance record, provided the outstanding advisories have been addressed since the last test. At eight years old the recorded 34,298 miles works out to just over 4,200 miles per annum, which is well below the typical UK average. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or long spells of standing, rather than high‑stress, high‑kilometre operation. The benefit is reduced wear on drivetrain components, suspension bushings and brake discs, but the downside is that rubber and polymer parts can perish with age, and corrosion can develop on brake calipers, exhaust brackets and under‑body panels when a vehicle sits for extended periods. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would suggest a sudden high‑stress episode. A prospective buyer should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. The off‑side rear outer tyre was noted as slightly damaged or cracking, and a dangerous lump was recorded on the near‑side rear tyre a year earlier – it is essential to confirm that both have been replaced or are still within safe limits, looking for tread depth below 1.6 mm, sidewall cracks, bulges or foreign objects that could cause a blow‑out. While on the road, listen for any thumping or clunking that may indicate worn front lower suspension arm bushes or pins; excessive play when turning the steering wheel or a noticeable wobble over bumps would suggest the bush wear noted in the advisories has progressed. Verify that the headlamp aim has been corrected by checking that the low beams illuminate the road without spilling excessively onto the kerb, and confirm that the rear brake disc, previously flagged as pitted, shows no deep scoring that could impair braking efficiency. Given the vehicle’s age and low usage, the buyer should also examine time‑related items that are not mileage‑dependent. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulfation, check the electrolyte level if it is a conventional lead‑acid type, and consider a load test to verify cranking power. Examine the brake calipers for corrosion or seized pistons, especially on the front where pads were once dangerously thin; any uneven pad wear or a pulsating pedal could indicate lingering issues. Look for dried or discoloured coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid, as these can degrade even when the car is not driven often. Finally, scan the under‑carriage for rust on suspension mounting points, exhaust hangers and the chassis, and ensure the service book shows regular oil changes and any recommended calendar‑based fluid replacements, as these will be key to confirming the car’s long‑term reliability.