2017 Toyota Auris 1.6L Diesel · SA17 PDO

The latest MOT test for this 2017 Toyota Auris recorded a failure in September 2025, with the most critical defect being a dangerous near-side rear tyre tear caused by structural separation or partial failure, which is a severe road hazard that must be rectified immediately. This failure follows a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories over the past four years, including previous instances of cracking, perishing, and wear close to the legal limit on both the front and rear tyres. While the vehicle passed MOTs in the intervening years, the consistent presence of tyre defects suggests either a history of underinflation, improper alignment, or underlying suspension issues that have contributed to uneven tyre wear and premature tyre failure. The fact that the tear was deemed dangerous rather than merely advisory underscores the urgency of addressing this issue before the vehicle is put back into service, as such defects can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden blowouts or catastrophic failure. The recorded mileage of 56,437 miles for a nine-year-old vehicle represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,271 miles per year, which is typical for a well-maintained car of this age and class. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on service intervals or fluid condition, so it is impossible to determine whether the mileage alone has driven wear beyond expected levels or if the vehicle has been subject to prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion, fluid degradation, or component stiffness. The absence of higher-mileage advisories on other systems—such as brakes, suspension, or exhaust—suggests that while tyre wear has been a persistent concern, other critical components may not yet be showing significant signs of deterioration. Nonetheless, the combination of relatively high mileage and recurring tyre defects warrants a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry, wheel alignment, and tyre storage conditions to rule out underlying causes like worn suspension bushes or misaligned wheels that could continue to accelerate tyre degradation. For the prospective buyer, the most pressing concern is the dangerous rear tyre tear, which must be repaired or replaced before the vehicle is driven again. On inspection, this defect would likely present as a visible separation or bulge in the sidewall, possibly accompanied by a loss of tyre pressure or an audible hissing sound when the tyre is inflated. The buyer should also verify that the repair adheres to industry standards, as partial sidewall failures can recur if the underlying cause—such as excessive flexing or internal damage—is not addressed. Beyond this, the advisories of tyre wear close to the legal limit on both the front and rear offside tyres should be addressed promptly to prevent further uneven wear patterns, which could indicate suspension misalignment or camber issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which may suggest worn coil springs, broken suspension links, or deteriorated bushes. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear, which could reveal misalignment or steering system issues. In the absence of any other critical failures, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly focusing on areas prone to standing corrosion, such as the undercarriage, wheel arches, and exhaust system. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has been exposed to prolonged sunlight or poor storage conditions. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older vehicles may suffer from reduced capacity or corrosion in the terminals, which can lead to starting difficulties or electrical system failures. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as this can cause uneven braking performance or reduced stopping distance. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider verifying the service book for any fluid-level checks or replacements, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years, depending on the fluid type. If the service history is incomplete, a professional inspection to assess fluid condition and component wear would be advisable.