2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · PL65 EDP

The latest MOT test results for the 2016 Toyota Yaris reflect a mixed but ultimately concerning maintenance pattern. The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 2026-02-28 with only advisories related to tyre wear and minor tyre damage, suggesting a brief period of stability in its condition. However, the preceding failures—particularly the recurring issues with tyre wear approaching or exceeding legal limits, headlamp functionality, and seat adjustment—indicate a pattern of deferred maintenance or underlying wear that has not been fully addressed. The presence of multiple advisories on tyre damage and wear progression over several MOT cycles points to either prolonged exposure to harsh driving conditions or neglect in addressing early signs of tyre degradation. Additionally, the failure of essential lighting components and the seat adjustment mechanism suggest that the vehicle’s electrical and passenger comfort systems may be deteriorating, warranting closer inspection before purchase. The recorded mileage of 90,140 miles for a vehicle aged ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,014 miles, which is typical for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage alone does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, as many owners maintain lower mileage through careful driving or infrequent use. However, the absence of service records or a clear maintenance log could imply that the vehicle has either been driven lightly over long periods or that routine servicing has been overlooked. The most critical implication of this usage profile is the potential for hidden wear in consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, which may not be immediately apparent but could lead to premature failure if not serviced. The gaps between MOTs—particularly the two-year intervals—also raise concerns about whether the vehicle has been stored in conditions that accelerate corrosion or degradation, such as prolonged exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures. Given the recurring tyre advisories and wear patterns, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or further cracking, which could indicate underlying alignment or suspension issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as clunking or grinding, which may suggest misaligned wheels or worn suspension bushes. The offside front tyre showing wear close to the legal limit and minor damage suggests that the vehicle has either been driven aggressively or stored in a way that accelerates tyre degradation. Additionally, check the rear tyres for consistent wear patterns, as the advisories on both near- and offside rear tyres may indicate poor alignment or excessive load distribution. For the electrical failures observed, verify that all headlamps, fog lamps, and indicator lights function correctly, and test the seat adjustment mechanism for smooth operation—binding or resistance could signal internal wear or failure in the adjustment mechanism. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should prioritise checking the vehicle’s fluid levels, particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid, as these can degrade over time even with moderate mileage. Given the age of the Yaris, the battery may also be approaching the end of its service life, especially if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery holds a charge when the ignition is off. For the suspension, visually inspect the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for signs of wear or damage, as these components can fail silently and lead to handling issues. Lastly, since the vehicle has not had an MOT for over two years, consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to confirm the absence of hidden mechanical issues, such as drivetrain wear, exhaust leaks, or structural integrity problems that may not have been flagged in the MOT history. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, focus on checking tyre sidewall integrity for cracks or perishing, which can compromise safety over time, and ensure all fluids are topped up and serviced according to Toyota’s recommended intervals.