2016 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · SA66 PNA

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2016 Toyota Yaris was conducted on 2025-09-15, resulting in a passing outcome. Despite this success, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures that warrant careful consideration. The failure in 2022-10-04—particularly the offside rear wheel bearing roughness and the severely deteriorated front upper anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover—indicates persistent issues with suspension and wheel bearing integrity, which could escalate into more serious mechanical failures if not addressed promptly. The offside side repeater failure in 2023-09-19 also suggests a recurring electrical or wiring concern, potentially linked to the vehicle’s age and the wear of connectors or harnesses. While the 2024 and 2025 MOTs were clean apart from tyre advisories, these prior defects suggest a maintenance trend that has not been fully resolved, leaving the buyer with a vehicle that may require proactive servicing to prevent compounding wear. The recorded mileage of 101,367 miles for a 2016 model represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,137 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this age group. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit data on annual mileage increments, but the presence of multiple MOTs within a 12-month period—particularly the 2022 failure—could imply periods of higher usage or more rigorous driving conditions, which accelerate wear on components like wheel bearings, suspension joints, and electrical systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which may have contributed to the observed wear, especially in the suspension and wheel bearing areas. It is worth noting that while 101,367 miles is not excessively high for a ten-year-old car, the cumulative stress on these components over time could justify a more thorough inspection, particularly for any signs of excessive play or unusual noises during operation. Given the recurring advisories and minor failures in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and wheel bearings. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding or clunking from the rear wheel bearings, which may indicate bearing failure or excessive wear. Inspect the suspension for signs of binding calipers, uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest misalignment or suspension component failure, and any excessive play in the anti-roll bar joints. Pay particular attention to the offside rear wheel area, as the 2022 failure highlighted potential bearing issues, and address any fluid leaks around the wheel hubs or suspension mounts. Additionally, verify the functionality of the offside side repeater, checking for consistent flashing or operation when the hazard lights are engaged, as recurring electrical faults can lead to more extensive wiring problems. If the wheel bearings or suspension components are found to be compromised, immediate replacement is advised to prevent further damage to the drivetrain or structural integrity. For the tyre advisories recorded in the MOT history—particularly the nearside rear tyre cracking or perishing and the offside front tyre damage—further inspection is essential. The nearside rear tyre’s cut, though not deep enough to reach the cords, indicates a puncture that may have compromised the tyre’s integrity, increasing the risk of a sudden blowout. The cracking or perishing of tyres is a common issue in older vehicles, especially if they have been stored in conditions that accelerate sidewall degradation. The buyer should measure the remaining tread depth across the tyre, ensuring it meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm, and visually inspect the sidewall for any signs of cracking, bulging, or delamination. If the tyre has been damaged or shows significant signs of ageing, it should be replaced promptly, as a punctured or compromised tyre can pose a serious safety risk. Additionally, the buyer should check the overall tyre pressure and alignment, as uneven wear patterns may indicate misalignment or suspension issues that require addressing. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, it is prudent to verify the service history, particularly for fluid servicing such as brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to system failures if not replaced at the recommended intervals.