2010 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · OY10 ETA

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT certificate, having passed its most recent roadworthiness examination on 23 March 2026, although it should be noted that this pass was achieved only three days after a prior failure on 20 March 2026 caused by an excessively binding nearside rear service brake. Such a failure, particularly one rectified within the same week, suggests the underlying caliper or brake mechanism issue was addressed promptly rather than indicating a deeply entrenched mechanical problem, though any prospective buyer should remain vigilant regarding the rear braking system. Looking at the broader maintenance trend over the past six recorded tests, the pattern is broadly stable but reflects the typical wear profile of an ageing city car; there are no categorically dangerous defects recorded, but the accumulation of advisories relating to rear sub-frame corrosion, recurring oil leaks, and wheel distortion suggests the vehicle is progressively accruing age-related issues rather than improving. The recorded mileage of 73,262 miles over approximately sixteen years equates to an average annual usage of around 4,579 miles, which is considerably below the national average and indicates a vehicle that has either been used predominantly for short urban journeys or has spent extended periods standing. While low annual mileage generally reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it often accelerates deterioration of items that suffer from inactivity. Standing for prolonged periods commonly leads to brake disc corrosion, binding brake calipers (as evidenced by this vehicle's recent history), electrolytic corrosion on body panels and undertrays, and degradation of rubber components including drive belts, coolant hoses, and tyre sidewalls. The presence of a recurring advisory for a slightly distorted nearside front road wheel, noted in both 2023 and 2026, further suggests intermittent or uneven use patterns, possibly involving kerb contact during infrequent driving. For a prospective buyer, a thorough physical inspection is strongly advised given the low-mileage profile. All four tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing or cracking, as tyres older than seven years deteriorate regardless of tread depth, and the production date should ideally be within the last five years to ensure safe operation. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries left in a partially discharged state deteriorate rapidly, and the condition of all under-bonnet fluids should be verified; brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should be renewed regardless of mileage, typically every two to three years, while engine coolant and the manual transmission fluid (where applicable) should also be confirmed as within their calendar-based service intervals. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any pulling to one side under braking, which would indicate the previously binding rear brake may still be partially seizing, and any warning lights or messages regarding the braking system should prompt immediate further investigation. Specific recurring advisories warrant close scrutiny during a pre-purchase inspection. The rear sub-frame corrosion, noted as not seriously weakened but progressively appearing across recent tests, should be physically examined on a ramp to ensure the structural integrity has not deteriorated beyond an advisory state, as corrosion in this area can spread to mounting points and adjacent chassis sections. The noted oil leak, present as an advisory in 2024 and 2025, should be traced to its source; oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or sump plug are common on ageing vehicles and inexpensive to rectify, whereas leaks from the crankshaft seal or rear main seal can indicate more significant work. The distorted front road wheel suggests possible previous kerbing damage; the wheel should be inspected for cracks and the tyre examined for uneven wear patterns indicative of misalignment. Finally, given the vehicle's low usage, all suspension components including coil springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar bushes should be checked for surface corrosion and seizure, as these items can seize or deteriorate from standing rather than wearing out through use, and a firm bounce test on each corner will help identify worn dampers that may not have been highlighted on the MOT.