2014 Toyota Yaris Icon VVT-I 1.3L Petrol · SL64 OOC

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 November 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, and the 2024 test was similarly clear. Looking back over the available history, the trend is one of stable but not entirely consistent maintenance. The 2023 test produced three advisories relating to the front braking system and front suspension strut corrosion, while the 2022 and 2020 tests also generated advisories on front brake components, suspension bushes, and tyres. There are no recorded failures or dangerous defects, and the absence of advisories at the last two tests suggests that items previously flagged have either been rectified or have not yet deteriorated to advisory level. Overall, the pattern points to a vehicle that has been maintained to a serviceable standard but is showing the type of progressive wear that is typical for a twelve year old car approaching the latter part of its service life. The recorded mileage of 88,120 miles against twelve years equates to an annual average of roughly 7,343 miles, which is a fairly modest rate of accumulation consistent with mixed urban and short journey use rather than sustained motorway driving. There are no sudden or implausible gaps in the recorded odometer readings between tests, and the mileage progression appears steady and consistent year on year. This kind of usage pattern is generally favourable for major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and transmission, but it does mean that the vehicle is likely to have spent considerable time undertaking short trips from cold, which can accelerate certain age related deterioration such as oil dilution, moisture accumulation in the oil, and corrosion on externally exposed metalwork. Although the MOT record is free of outright failures, the advisories raised over successive tests are worth careful attention from a prospective buyer. The recurring front brake disc and pad advisories from 2022 and 2023 indicate that the front braking system has been progressively wearing, and on a test drive you should listen for any brake squeal or grinding on light application, feel for any shudder through the pedal or steering wheel under firm braking, and check that the vehicle pulls up squarely without pulling to one side. Given the age, the front discs may now be at or close to minimum thickness and could be due for replacement alongside fresh pads. The 2023 advisory regarding corrosion on the front Macpherson strut should also prompt a physical inspection of the strut bodies for surface rust and any flaking that could progress to structural concern, particularly around the spring seat and lower mounting areas. The 2020 advisories concerning front lower suspension arm pins or bushes suggest the front suspension geometry components have been wearing, and you should listen for clonking or knocking over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, as well as checking for uneven tyre wear across the front axle which would indicate renewed bush wear. The earlier tyre advisories on front and rear edges also indicate that tracking or geometry work may be advisable alongside any tyre renewal. Beyond the recorded advisory items, there are several age related checks that should be carried out on a 2014 Yaris regardless of MOT history. Tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall cracking and perishing caused by age rather than wear, as rubber compounds degrade with time even when tread depth remains adequate, and any tyres older than six years should be regarded with caution even if they appear serviceable. The twelve volt battery is likely due for replacement on a calendar basis, and a voltage or load test is worthwhile given that the most common cause of non start issues in this age of vehicle is battery related. Brake calipers can seize from standing or infrequent use, so each wheel should be checked to ensure the discs rotate freely without resistance and that there are no hotspots indicating a binding caliper. Fluid services should be verified, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should typically be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, while engine coolant and gearbox oil if applicable will also benefit from time based replacement. Finally, confirm that the service book is fully stamped and that any timing chain or auxiliary drive belts have been changed in accordance with manufacturer schedules, as these items are time rather than mileage sensitive on a vehicle of this age.