2009 Toyota Avensis 2.2L Diesel · SD09 VJM

A pattern of recurring corrosion and wear in the suspension and steering components, together with a recent major failure of the front brake pads and a split constant‑velocity (CV) boot, dominates this Avensis’s MOT history. The latest test on 18 November 2025 was passed, but it still recorded off‑side front rack play, discoloured rear direction indicators and slightly defective headlamp lenses, echoing earlier advisories. Over the past two years the record shows a shift from predominantly advisory notes to a single failure in 2024 (brake pads under 1.5 mm and a split CV boot), indicating that wear on critical safety items is beginning to breach the pass/fail threshold. At 147,164 mi recorded over 17 years the average annual mileage is roughly 8,600 mi, which sits squarely within normal usage for a family saloon of this age. The MOT chronology is continuous, with no multi‑year gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been regularly taken to test rather than sitting idle for long periods. This mileage level means consumables such as bushings, joints and brake wear items will be approaching the latter stages of their service life, and the cumulative exposure to road loads will have accelerated corrosion on exposed steelwork. The suspension and steering advisories merit close inspection. Both front coil springs are flagged as corroded, rear sub‑frame corrosion is noted, and multiple track‑rod ends and lower arm bushes show slight play or corrosion. On a drive, listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any wandering or looseness in the steering, and check for uneven tyre wear that could indicate worn bushings. A visual inspection should confirm the extent of rust on the sub‑frame and coil springs; any sign of structural weakening or cracked springs would require replacement before further use. Brake performance and drivetrain integrity also need verification. The 2024 failure recorded front pads below the legal minimum and a split CV boot on the off‑side front drive shaft, while the disc was already noted as worn. Test the brakes for pedal travel, pulsation or reduced bite, and listen for clicking or whirring from the CV joint during acceleration and cornering. Examine the boot for cracks or grease leakage, and ensure the axle shaft rotates freely without excessive play. Finally, confirm that the headlamp lenses are clear of significant clouding and that the direction indicators illuminate correctly, as these were repeatedly flagged as slightly discoloured. Addressing these items will be essential to bring the vehicle to a safe, road‑worthy condition.