1998 Toyota Granvia 2.7L Petrol · R668 CCY

The defining mechanical story across this Granvia's MOT history is a chronic pattern of brake disc wear affecting all four corners, accompanied by engine oil leaks of progressively worsening severity and recurring exhaust emissions concerns. The most recent test on 12 March 2026 produced a pass, but only after a failure three weeks earlier on 26 February 2026 which had seen exhaust carbon monoxide content exceed manufacturer limits after the second fast idle. That failure followed an earlier fail in December 2024 triggered by excessively leaking engine oil, an offside headlamp aimed too low, and an inability to complete emissions testing due to a leak from the middle exhaust box. Between these failures, the December 2023 and February 2025 tests passed with advisories that already flagged the oil leak and rear brake disc condition, meaning the same underlying issues have been present in every recorded test for at least three years rather than being newly developed faults. At 203,411 miles across roughly 28 years, this vehicle has accumulated approximately 7,265 miles annually, which sits close to the typical average for its age. The five recorded MOT tests since 2023 indicate the vehicle has been in regular use throughout this period with no extended lay-up that might have introduced its own complications such as seized brakes, perished rubber, or drained batteries. However, the mileage itself places significant wear demand on a 1998-vintage powertrain and underbody, and the recorded brake disc wear across both axles is consistent with the cumulative mileage rather than any unusual driving pattern. The narrowing gap between the December 2024 failure and the December 2023 pass, followed closely by the February 2026 failure and pass, reflects active use rather than neglect, but does mean components are being replaced or attended to with some regularity. A prospective buyer should approach this Granvia with the brake system as the primary inspection focus. All four brake discs have been flagged as worn, pitted, or scored on more than one occasion, so a thorough test drive should include several moderate to firm stops from higher speeds to feel for brake pedal judder, vibration through the steering wheel, or any pulsing sensation indicating disc runout. Brake pedal feel should also be checked for the smooth wear noted on the most recent advisory, as an excessively polished pedal surface can compromise grip in wet conditions or when wearing smooth-soled footwear. The pedal travel and any signs of binding or uneven pull to one side under braking warrant particular attention, given that pitted discs can lead to uneven pad transfer and caliper slider seizure over time. The engine oil leaks recorded as minor in 2023 and 2025 and then as excessive in December 2024 represent a clear deterioration that requires visual inspection on site. Before any test drive, the underbonnet and beneath the vehicle should be examined for fresh oil residue on the engine block, sump, and any ancillary components, paying attention to wetness rather than just historical staining. During the drive, listen for any ticking or tapping from the top of the engine which could indicate oil starvation from a degraded seal, and watch the oil pressure warning light behaviour on startup. The exhaust system should also be physically inspected for the middle box integrity referenced in the 2024 failure, with particular attention to any blowing sounds, soot deposits around joints, or a strong exhaust smell inside the cabin. Finally, verify the headlamp alignment on both sides using a flat wall, as the offside unit was recorded as too low less than two years ago, and confirm there are no dashboard warning lights present at ignition.