2019 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Petrol · RO69 AOL

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 5 September 2025, but the test was not entirely clean, with five advisories recorded against the front axle braking system and front tyres. Looking at the broader test history, the maintenance trend is showing a gradual pattern of emerging defects rather than outright decline. Between 2022 and 2024 the vehicle recorded two failures alongside its passes, one concerning rear shock absorber fluid leakage and the other a windscreen wiper effectiveness issue, both of which suggest a lapse in periodic replacement of wear items. The 2024 and 2023 tests were clean passes with no advisories, indicating that the issues identified at those times were rectified satisfactorily. However, the accumulation of five advisories at the most recent test, all relating to the front braking and front tyre condition, indicates that components on the front axle are now reaching a serviceable threshold and should be attended to in the near term. With approximately 56,343 miles recorded over seven years, the vehicle has covered roughly 8,000 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a small supermini of this age. The annual mileage rate does not suggest either heavy commercial use or prolonged standing, both of which can introduce specific mechanical concerns. The MOT test dates, occurring annually in September, are reasonably regular, and there is no obvious evidence of large mileage jumps between tests or extended periods off the road. This level of usage generally means that consumable wear such as brake components, tyres, and service items should be progressing at a predictable rate, rather than being either severely worn from high mileage or suffering the age-related degradation that affects very low mileage or stored cars. The most recent advisories are centred on the front braking system, with both front brake discs recorded as worn, pitted, or scored, and both front brake pad sets noted as approaching the limit of remaining material. Pitting and scoring on the disc friction surfaces typically develop gradually with use, but once the surface becomes uneven, brake effectiveness can be reduced and pedal feel may become less consistent. A prospective buyer should, on a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front wheels under light braking, feel for any vibration or shudder through the steering wheel when slowing from speed, and check that the vehicle pulls up in a straight line without pulling to one side. Given that the discs are now showing surface degradation and the pads are thinning, it is reasonable to budget for a front brake overhaul, comprising new discs and pads, within the next several thousand miles or sooner if symptoms manifest on the road. The nearside front tyre was also flagged as being close to the legal limit or worn on its edge, suggesting that a replacement tyre is due imminently and that wheel alignment, particularly on the nearside front, may merit checking. The earlier failure concerning the offside rear shock absorber with a serious fluid leak is worth noting even though the vehicle subsequently passed, as the nearside rear unit was also recorded as showing light oil misting at the same time. Shock absorber fluid leaks compromise damping performance progressively, and a buyer should test the vehicle over uneven roads, speed humps, and corners, listening for any clonking, knocking, or excessive bouncing at the rear that could indicate that the replacement units are themselves now ageing or that the original replacement was marginal. Beyond the recorded history, given the vehicle's age, it is prudent to inspect the condition of all tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking from age, even those with adequate tread, as rubber compounds degrade with time regardless of mileage. The 12-volt battery, likely original or several years old, should be checked for secure fitment and cranking strength, particularly as the car will be seven years old at point of sale. It is also worth verifying the service history stamps and ensuring that time-based items such as engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer's calendar schedule, as these degrade irrespective of mileage. Finally, confirm that the wiper blades have been replaced since the 2024 failure, as a passing test does not guarantee long-term effectiveness, and ensure that the underbody and wheel arch areas are free from corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and the rear shock absorber turrets.