2004 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Petrol · SL04 ADF

The most recent MOT test on 15 December 2022 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy, though with persistent minor issues that suggest deferred maintenance rather than critical failure. The trend over the last year is stable but not ideal—recurring anti-roll bar bush wear (flagged in both the failed and passed tests) indicates a long-standing neglect of suspension components, while the December 2022 pass was contingent on non-critical electrical faults (headlamp alignment and plate lamp) being addressed. The March 2022 test further highlights a braking system requiring attention, with the parking brake only just meeting standards. These patterns imply the vehicle has been driven with minimal intervention, leaving wear items unresolved. The recorded mileage of 90,044 miles over 22 years—roughly 4,093 miles annually—suggests light usage, but the sparse MOT history (only three tests in four years) raises questions about consistent servicing. The gap between the March 2022 and December 2022 tests (nine months) includes no intermediate checks, and the failure in December 2022 for electrical faults and worn suspension bushes points to a lack of pre-MOT preparation. While low mileage typically reduces wear on drivetrain and structural components, the absence of regular maintenance means even low-mileage items like suspension bushes and brake pads may be beyond their serviceable lifespan. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the suspension, particularly the front anti-roll bar bushes and their mounting points, as these have been flagged twice without repair. The braking system warrants thorough examination, with attention to rear brake binding (implied by the December 2022 failure) and the efficiency of the parking brake mechanism. Electrical faults, including headlamp alignment and registration plate lighting, should also be tested, as these were not fully resolved in the most recent pass. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounts, should be visually inspected for corrosion or fatigue, given the vehicle’s age and the deferred maintenance indicated by the MOT record.