2021 Toyota Corolla Icon HEV CVT 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · SD21 XNB

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2021 Toyota Corolla Icon HEV CVT, conducted on 2026-07-07, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating a stable maintenance record over the past two years. While the vehicle has not encountered any failures, the presence of advisories from the previous MOTs—particularly the near-side front tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing and the rear tyre nearing the legal limit with edge wear—suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, there are ongoing wear issues that require attention. The absence of repeated failures or major defects in the intervening period is positive, but the advisories indicate that the vehicle has been subjected to moderate stress, likely from either aggressive driving or prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. This trend suggests that while the vehicle is currently in a stable condition, proactive maintenance will be necessary to prevent further deterioration of the tyres and related components. The recorded mileage of 44,117 miles for a vehicle of this age represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,823 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a car of this generation. This level of mileage, while not excessively high for a five-year-old vehicle, does imply regular use, particularly over the past five years. There is no evidence of significant mileage gaps or periods of prolonged idleness, which could otherwise lead to accelerated wear from standing corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the combination of moderate mileage and the presence of tyre-related advisories suggests that the vehicle has experienced some wear on its tyres, potentially from frequent cornering, braking, or driving on rough surfaces. This wear pattern warrants closer inspection of tyre condition and alignment to mitigate further damage to the suspension and steering components. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, given the recurring advisories from the MOT tests. The near-side front tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing is a significant concern, as tyre sidewall damage can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as a grinding or scraping sound when cornering, which could indicate misalignment or uneven tyre wear. Additionally, check the rear tyre for consistent tread depth and signs of excessive edge wear, which may suggest improper alignment or suspension issues. If the rear tyre is indeed close to the legal limit, consider replacing it promptly to prevent hydroplaning hazards and further wear on the suspension components. Beyond the tyres, the Toyota Corolla Icon HEV CVT at this age and mileage should also be evaluated for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody. Given the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain, inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, as this can lead to poor electrical performance or even failure of the hybrid system. Check the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, verify that the engine has been run periodically to prevent corrosion in the fuel system, electrical components, and lubricants. Lastly, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural damage is essential, as the HEV system may be more susceptible to corrosion in the catalytic converter and muffler components.