2018 Toyota C-HR 1.2L Petrol · PL18 LBZ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-04-20 resulted in a clean pass, indicating no mechanical or safety failures at that time. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories related to brake pad wear and tyre condition, with the most critical failures occurring in 2021, where both front tyres were found to have tread depths below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. While the vehicle has since passed subsequent tests without further dangerous failures, the persistent advisories on brake pad thinning and tyre wear—particularly the nearside front tyre showing edge wear close to the legal limit—suggest that maintenance has been deferred rather than addressed proactively. This trend indicates a potential lapse in routine servicing, which could escalate into more serious issues if not rectified soon, particularly given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 61,934 miles for a 2018 C-HR represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,742 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. Such usage suggests moderate to heavy daily driving, placing increased demands on critical components like brakes, tyres, and suspension. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily indicate neglect, but the combination of consistent wear advisories and the vehicle’s age means that consumables and wear items are approaching or exceeding their operational lifespan. For example, brake pads and discs, which have been flagged as thin in multiple tests, will require replacement soon to prevent overheating, reduced braking efficiency, or even failure under heavy loads. Tyre wear patterns, especially the nearside front tyre’s edge wear, may also signal alignment or suspension issues that could worsen with continued use. Given the recurring advisories on brake pad wear and the critical tyre failures from 2021, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding when applying the brakes, which could indicate pad-to-disc contact or warping. Check for a firm, even response to pedal travel without excessive vibration or shuddering, which might suggest binding calipers or uneven brake disc wear. Inspect the brake discs for signs of scoring, glazing, or excessive thickness loss, and verify that the pads are evenly worn and not sticking to the discs. Additionally, examine the suspension for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could point to worn suspension bushes or coil springs, and check for uneven tyre wear that might indicate misalignment or camber issues. If the brake system is deemed safe but the pads are critically thin, budget for replacement—typically between £150 and £300 for a front set in a Toyota C-HR—along with a full brake fluid flush to remove moisture and contaminants that can corrode components. For the tyres, beyond addressing the nearside front tyre’s edge wear, the buyer should consider replacing all tyres to meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, as the offside front tyre also failed in 2021. Tyres should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear, and the C-HR’s tyres may benefit from a full set replacement if they show significant lateral wear or sidewall damage. Inspect the tyres for signs of perishing or cracking in the sidewall, which can compromise structural integrity, especially in a vehicle of this age. The nearside rear nail in the tyre from the 2025 MOT is a minor cosmetic issue but should be noted for future reference, as it may indicate a previous puncture or damage that could recur. Beyond tyres, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a check on fluid levels and condition, particularly the engine oil, differential fluid, and brake fluid, which should be replaced according to Toyota’s service schedule—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 3 years, respectively. For example, brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, leading to corrosion in the brake master cylinder and calipers, so a flush is advisable if the fluid appears dark or contaminated. Finally, since the vehicle has been driven regularly, verify that the 12V battery is holding a charge and that the starter motor and alternator are functioning correctly, as these components can wear out more quickly under heavy usage. A simple battery test or inspection of the battery terminals for corrosion is prudent, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods.