2015 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · SC65 UOG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 November 2023, was passed with no recorded defects, continuing a six‑year sequence of clean passes apart from a single advisory noted in 2021. This pattern indicates a generally stable maintenance regime, with no evidence of progressive deterioration in the items inspected by the MOT examiner. The isolated rear‑disc advisory has not re‑appeared in subsequent tests, suggesting that either the condition was addressed or it has not progressed to a point of failure. At 10,048 miles on the odometer, the Yaris averages just under 1,000 miles per year, a usage rate that is markedly below the typical 8‑10 000 miles per annum for a vehicle of its class. Such low annual mileage often points to predominantly short journeys or long periods of inactivity, both of which can be gentler on wear‑items such as engine bearings, clutch components and suspension bushings, yet they also raise the possibility of age‑related degradation unrelated to distance. The limited mileage reduces the likelihood of imminent tyre tread exhaustion, but the extended calendar life may have allowed rubber hardening, sidewall cracking or perishing, especially if the car has been stored outdoors. For a prospective buyer, the primary visual and tactile checks should focus on age‑related items. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking, dry rot or bulging, and verify that the tread depth remains above the legal minimum while being even across the width, as uneven wear can hint at misaligned suspension components that may have been neglected during long storage periods. Examine the under‑carriage for corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust system; any flaking paint or rust‑spotted steel should be probed for structural integrity. The 12‑volt battery, now over a decade old, should be tested for cranking amperage and checked for any leakage or swollen cells, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation and reduced capacity. Given the 2021 advisory concerning rear brake disc wear, a thorough brake inspection is advisable. Look for scoring or uneven wear on both front and rear discs, and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness and are not glazed. While on a test drive, listen for any high‑pitched squeal or low‑frequency groan when applying the brakes, and feel for any pulsation or shudder that could indicate warped discs or uneven pad wear. Finally, confirm that the vehicle’s service history includes regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and brake fluid replacements at the manufacturer‑specified intervals; fluid colour and clarity should be examined for signs of contamination, as time‑based degradation can affect engine lubrication and braking performance even when mileage is low.