2015 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric · SC65 UOU

The most recent MOT on 10 August 2026 was passed, the only recorded defect being a minor nearside front windscreen chip that does not impair the driver’s view. Over the last seven years the vehicle has shown a mixed picture: a serious safety failure in April 2025 when the rear inner brake pads were measured below the 1.5 mm minimum, followed by a prompt remedial MOT that returned a pass, and a series of advisory items relating to brake‑pad wear and tyre tread depth. Since that failure the record has been free of dangerous defects, but the recurring advisories indicate that wear items are being monitored rather than fully resolved, suggesting a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention. At 157,029 miles the Yaris has accumulated roughly 14,300 miles per annum, well above the average for a 2015 model. Such mileage accelerates the depletion of consumables and places additional load on the engine, transmission, suspension and braking systems. It also points to a likely pattern of regular, possibly high‑speed, use rather than long periods of inactivity, meaning that components such as the timing chain, camshaft bearings and clutch (if a manual) may be approaching the end of their service lives. The high annual run‑rate makes it prudent to expect increased wear on the tyre sidewalls, brake discs and pads, and to verify that any mileage‑related services – oil changes, coolant flushes and transmission fluid replacements – have been performed at the recommended intervals. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the rear braking system. Verify that the rear pads have been replaced since the 2025 failure and check the condition of the rear discs for scoring, glazing or uneven wear, which would manifest as a pulsating pedal or a squealing noise under moderate braking. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and consistent wear patterns; any edge‑wear or cupping could indicate mis‑aligned suspension or worn steering components. During a test drive listen for clunks or knocks over bumps that may reveal deteriorated suspension bushes, worn coil springs or loose rear trailing arms, and feel for any pull to one side which might betray alignment or tyre‑wear issues. Also inspect the nearside front windscreen for the reported chip and ensure it has not propagated. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a thorough check of time‑related items is essential. Inspect the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity even if they have been used regularly. Look under the vehicle for rust on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and assess the condition of the exhaust system for corrosion or perforation. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the last 12 months; fluid should be clear, without sludge or a burnt smell, as degradation can lead to reduced lubrication and overheating. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for major intervals – particularly the 100 000‑mile service – and that any recommended component replacements, such as timing belt or chain tensioner checks, have been documented.