2020 Toyota Yaris Icon HEV CVT 1.5L Hybrid electric · PL70 POU

The most recent MOT test on the 2020 Toyota Yaris Icon HEV CVT, conducted on 2025-11-29, resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two advisories related to the nearside front and rear tyres showing signs of slight damage, cracking, or perishing. This follows a notable pattern from the preceding MOT on 2025-11-28, where the vehicle failed due to a major defect on the offside rear tyre—a deep cut reaching the ply or cords—while the front and rear near-side tyres again exhibited similar minor cracking or perishing issues. Comparing this to the clean MOT results from 2024-11-29 and 2023-11-20, the trend is not improving but rather remains consistent in terms of tyre-related advisories, suggesting a recurring problem rather than a one-off anomaly. The presence of these advisories indicates that the tyres are approaching or have exceeded their useful lifespan, particularly given the wear patterns observed, and prompt attention is required to prevent further compromise of road grip and structural integrity. The recorded mileage of 6,930 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 1,155 miles per year. Such low mileage is unusual for a vehicle of this age and typically reflects either infrequent use or prolonged periods of stationary storage, which can accelerate wear in certain components. For instance, standing for extended periods can lead to corrosion in brake systems, particularly on the rear discs and calipers, where moisture and road salt may penetrate and cause rusting or binding. Additionally, the CVT transmission and associated fluid may degrade more rapidly when the vehicle is not driven regularly, potentially leading to increased friction or wear in the belt and pulley systems. Meanwhile, the tyres, despite the low mileage, show signs of wear that are inconsistent with typical usage patterns, hinting at either underinflation, improper alignment, or excessive cornering forces during periods of active use. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the low mileage context, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the wear patterns and structural integrity. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the tyres, such as excessive vibration or squealing, which may indicate uneven wear or internal damage. Inspect the tread depth with a 25p coin—if the outer edge of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread groove, the tyre is legally unsafe and must be replaced immediately. Additionally, check for any signs of bulges or cracks in the sidewall, which could signal underlying fatigue or damage. The brake system should be examined for signs of corrosion on the rear discs and calipers, particularly on the near-side components, as prolonged standing can exacerbate rust formation. A visual inspection of the brake hoses and fluid level should also be performed to ensure there is no fluid leakage or degradation, which could compromise braking performance. For the remaining components, the buyer should verify the condition of the suspension and steering systems, as low mileage can sometimes mask wear that becomes more apparent with repeated use. Pay particular attention to the CVT transmission fluid, which should be checked for colour and viscosity—if it appears dark or has a burnt smell, it should be replaced, even if the last service was recent. The battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on the terminals, as standing vehicles can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, reducing reliability. Finally, given the age of the vehicle, consider a comprehensive fluid top-up or replacement for the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp or cold environment, it may also benefit from a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for signs of rust or leaks, which could affect emissions performance and structural integrity. Always ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for the CVT transmission and timing belt, as these are critical components that require scheduled maintenance to prevent catastrophic failure.