2009 Toyota IQ 1.0L Petrol · OV09 KCZ

The most recent MOT test on 11 August 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. When evaluating the maintenance trend, the vehicle shows signs of intermittent attention to consumable components. The 2025 test was particularly notable for a dangerous failure involving a structural tyre defect, alongside advisories for suspension and braking components. However, the clean pass in 2026 suggests that the identified faults were rectified. The maintenance profile is currently stable, but the history of advisories indicates that the vehicle is entering a period where wear-and-tear items will require more frequent monitoring. With a recorded mileage of 34,142 miles over 17 years, this Toyota iQ has been driven approximately 2,008 miles per year. This is significantly below the national average and classifies it as a very low-mileage vehicle. While this suggests minimal mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, such low usage often implies the vehicle has spent considerable time stationary or has been used for very short trips. This can lead to specific mechanical issues such as fluid degradation, battery health decline, and the perishing of rubber seals and hoses due to a lack of regular thermal cycling and movement. During your inspection and test drive, pay close attention to the suspension and braking systems. The 2025 advisories regarding the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and pitted brake discs should be verified. Listen for any knocking or clunking noises from the front end when navigating uneven road surfaces, which would indicate play in the linkage. When testing the brakes, check for any shuddering through the pedal or steering wheel, which may suggest the discs are uneven or heavily scored. Furthermore, given the previous advisories for tyre cracking and the dangerous tyre failure, inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres very closely for any signs of perishing, cracking, or structural deformation, as age-related rubber degradation is a clear pattern for this vehicle. Finally, conduct a thorough check of the vehicle's underside and engine bay for signs of age-related issues. Look for evidence of brake binding or corrosion on the calipers, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven regularly. Check the condition of the 12V battery and ensure the service history confirms that fluids, such as engine oil and brake fluid, have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage. It is essential to confirm that the vehicle has received regular, calendar-based servicing to mitigate the risks of moisture buildup and component degradation associated with such low annual usage.