2002 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · SL52 WVR

The most recent official DVSA MOT test for this 2002 Toyota Yaris was conducted on 26 March 2026 and resulted in a pass, with no defects or advisories recorded against the vehicle. Looking back over the available test history, the car has recorded five consecutive passes at annual intervals from 2022 through 2026, each returning a clean sheet. There is no recorded advisory history in the recent MOT data indicating emerging wear items such as brake component deterioration, suspension bush play, exhaust corrosion, or structural advisories. This consistent clean outcome suggests a stable maintenance trend and indicates the vehicle has been kept in a condition compliant with statutory roadworthiness requirements throughout the period covered. While a clean MOT history is a positive indicator, it is important to remember that the MOT represents only a point-in-time check of safety and emissions-critical items and does not constitute a comprehensive mechanical inspection. The recorded mileage of 91,918 miles against the vehicle's 24-year age equates to an annual average of roughly 3,830 miles, which is notably low for a car of this vintage. This low accumulation rate implies the Yaris has either seen light use with predominantly short journeys, or has spent considerable periods standing idle between uses. From a mechanical perspective, low annual mileage on an older vehicle carries specific concerns distinct from high-mileage wear. Short journeys prevent the engine, catalytic converter, and exhaust system from reaching and sustaining full operating temperature, which can promote internal carbon build-up, oil contamination through fuel dilution, and accelerated degradation of the exhaust emissions system. Conversely, extended periods of standing introduce risks of corrosion seizing on brake calipers and handbrake mechanisms, oxidation of brake disc friction surfaces, and premature ageing of rubber and plastic components throughout the vehicle. Given the age of the vehicle and the low recorded usage, a prospective buyer should carry out a number of physical inspections beyond the MOT certificate. The tyres warrant close scrutiny for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of remaining tread depth, and the production date stamped on the sidewall should be checked to confirm they are not excessively old. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance and state of charge, particularly if the vehicle has stood for prolonged periods, as batteries older than five or six years commonly struggle in colder conditions. Brake discs should be examined for advanced surface corrosion, and the handbrake mechanism tested for effective application and clean release, as standing can cause caliper slide pins to seize and pistons to bind within their bores. Any uneven tyre wear when fitted may also indicate binding calipers or weakened suspension components. Further checks appropriate to this age and usage profile include a thorough inspection under the bonnet for perished or leaking coolant hoses, degraded vacuum lines, and any evidence of fluid leaks from the engine, gearbox, or power steering system where applicable. The cooling system should be examined to confirm the coolant has been replaced at the correct intervals, as conventional green coolant loses its corrosion-inhibiting properties over time and can lead to internal water pump wear and radiator degradation. Engine oil should be checked for colour and consistency, as short-journey driving accelerates contamination. Underneath the vehicle, attention should be given to structural corrosion on the sills, wheel arches, subframes, and suspension mounting points, as a 24-year-old car is highly susceptible to rust regardless of MOT outcome, since corrosion testing under MOT has strict criteria. Finally, request evidence of regular servicing, including cambelt replacement history given the vehicle's age, and confirm that any recent work has been recorded in the service book to verify ongoing mechanical upkeep.