2012 Toyota Vitz 1.3L Petrol · PL12 BVR

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 4 April 2026 at 48,766 miles, but the test flagged four advisories, including severe deterioration of both front anti-roll bar linkage dust covers and worn suspension bushes on both sides, alongside excessive handbrake travel. This marks a clear deterioration from the clean pass in February 2024 and indicates a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than improvement. The same dust cover issue appeared in both the March 2025 tests, and the handbrake problem has persisted across three consecutive inspections, suggesting these concerns have been overlooked despite repeated warnings. The recorded mileage of 48,766 over 14 years equates to an average of 3,483 miles annually, which is low for the vehicle’s age. The gap between the February 2024 and March 2025 tests shows just under 1,150 miles covered in 13 months, while the jump from 45,307 to 48,766 miles in just 13 months between March 2025 and April 2026 implies a recent spike in usage. This sudden increase raises questions about whether the car was stored for long periods before being returned to regular use, potentially accelerating component degradation from lack of use rather than wear from driving. A buyer must inspect the front suspension system thoroughly, particularly the anti-roll bar linkages and their mounting bushes, as the persistent dust cover failures indicate moisture ingress and likely internal corrosion or wear that may soon lead to excessive play or failure. The handbrake’s excessive travel suggests worn cables, seized mechanisms, or deteriorated rear brake components, which should be checked for binding calipers or corroded drums. The windscreen wiper failure and missing rear fog lamp from March 2025 are minor but reflect broader neglect; the absence of structural corrosion advisories is reassuring, but underbody inspection is still advised given the age and the possibility of hidden rust in wheel arches or suspension mounts. The car is currently roadworthy, but its condition is fragile and demands immediate attention to avoid costly failures.