2012 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · RO62 UTZ

A pattern of recurring brake-related advisories, headlamp aim adjustments, and tyre wear issues defines the mechanical history of this 2012 Toyota Aygo, suggesting that while the vehicle has generally remained roadworthy, certain consumable and service items have demanded repeated attention. Across six recorded tests between 2018 and 2023, the car has passed four times outright and failed twice, with the failures being relatively minor in nature. The 2022 failure related to both headlamps being aimed too high, an easily corrected alignment issue, while the 2018 failure centred on an inoperative hazard warning switch. Notably, the same set of advisories has appeared in multiple consecutive tests, indicating that some wear items have been deferred rather than resolved at each service interval. With 35,720 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, this Aygo has covered an annual average of around 2,551 miles, which is notably low for its age and suggests either genuinely light usage or extended periods of standing. The mileage progression between tests is consistent with this low-use profile, showing modest annual increments of roughly 1,000 to 3,000 miles. While low mileage typically reduces wear on major drivetrain components, prolonged standing can introduce its own concerns, particularly around brake disc corrosion, tyre dry-rot, and the condition of rubber seals and bushes. However, the MOT record does not show any multi-year gaps in testing, so there is no evidence of the vehicle being laid up for extended periods. The recurring front brake advisories are the most consistent theme in this vehicle's history, with worn or pitted front brake discs and thinning front brake pads flagged in 2018, 2020, and as early advisories in the most recent test cycle. On a test drive, listen for any scraping, grinding, or squealing from the front wheels under light braking, and feel for pedal pulsation or vibration through the steering wheel that would suggest the discs have developed lipping or excessive runout. Given that the discs have now been flagged across multiple tests, prospective buyers should physically inspect the pad material thickness through the wheel spokes and check for a visible ridge on the disc outer edge, as continued deferral risks metal or metal contact and more costly disc replacement. Tyre condition represents the second chronic advisory pattern, with at least one rear tyre flagged for cracking, perishing, edge wear, or cuts in four of the five recorded advisories across 2019, 2021, and 2023. This suggests either prolonged standing combined with age-related rubber degradation, or potential rear wheel alignment irregularities that should be investigated. On inspection, examine both rear tyres closely for sidewall cracking, particularly in the grooves between tread blocks, and check for uneven wear patterns that might point to camber or tracking issues. The headlamp aim failures in 2022, while easily resolved, warrant a quick check that both dipped beam patterns are level and correctly oriented before purchase. Finally, verify the hazard warning switch functions reliably on all settings, as this is a road safety critical item that previously failed outright, and ensure all four direction indicators illuminate correctly given the discolouration noted on the offside front unit in the most recent test.