2009 Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.3L Petrol · RO09 NPD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 April 2026, resulted in a full pass with no recorded defects, mirroring the clean record of the preceding tests back to 2019. The only advisory noted in the six‑year span was in 2022, concerning the fitting of the engine cover and sill trims and the proximity of the rear tyre tread to the legal minimum. With no recurring failures and a consistent pattern of passes, the maintenance trend can be regarded as stable and indicative of a vehicle that has been kept within the required safety standards. At 26,213 miles on a 2009 model, the annualised mileage works out to roughly 1,540 miles per year, which is markedly below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of prolonged storage rather than intensive use, and while it reduces wear on wear‑items such as brakes and clutch, it can accentuate age‑related deterioration of rubber, seals and battery capacity. The modest mileage also means that any wear that does exist is likely to be concentrated in components that have been idle for long stretches, such as suspension bushings and tyre sidewalls. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the condition of the tyres, not merely their tread depth but also their age. Verify the DOT code on the sidewall; tyres older than six years may have begun to perish even if the tread appears acceptable, showing cracking, dry rot or hardening that can lead to sudden failure. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for sulphation or reduced cranking power, especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods standing; a load test or a check of the electrolyte level (if applicable) will reveal whether replacement is imminent. Examine the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust hangers, as long periods of inactivity can allow rust to develop unnoticed. A thorough mechanical appraisal should also include a visual and tactile inspection of the suspension and steering components – look for cracked or collapsed rubber bushings, worn ball joints and any play in the tie‑rod ends. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear that could cause shudder under heavy braking, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. During a test drive, listen for any clunking or squeaking from the rear suspension, monitor for vibration through the steering wheel at higher speeds, and note whether the brakes engage smoothly without pulsation. Finally, confirm that the engine cover and sill trims fitted after the 2022 advisory are securely attached and do not allow water ingress, as leaks can lead to corrosion of the chassis and electrical connections.