2021 Toyota Corolla Icon Tech HEV CVT 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · SL71 VVG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 27 April 2026, was a pass but it carried two advisories concerning the nearside and off‑side rear brake discs, both described as worn, pitted or scored though not yet structurally compromised. Earlier in the series the car also failed a test on 7 November 2024 due to an exposed ply on the off‑side front tyre, a serious safety defect that would have required immediate tyre replacement. Apart from that isolated failure, the intervening tests in 2025 and early 2026 recorded no further defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance pattern with only isolated wear items emerging as the vehicle ages. At five years old the recorded 40 095 miles equates to just over 8 000 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. The mileage suggests the car has not been subjected to excessive high‑speed or heavy‑load duty, but it also implies a reasonable amount of wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs and tyres. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT record that would hint at long periods of inactivity, so the wear observed is likely to be a natural progression rather than the result of prolonged standing. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear brake discs noted in the latest advisory. Look for any audible pulsation, vibration or shudder when applying the brakes, especially under moderate to heavy braking, and feel for uneven pedal feel that may indicate disc thickness variation. A visual inspection should reveal surface scoring or rust spots; if the discs are approaching the minimum thickness limit they will need resurfacing or replacement together with the rear pads. The front tyre failure recorded in 2024 also warrants a thorough tyre audit – check tread depth across the width of all four tyres, inspect the sidewalls for cracks, bulges or any sign of delamination, and verify that the tyre age (DOT code) is not beyond six years, as ageing rubber can deteriorate even with low mileage. Replacing the front tyre that failed is essential, and it would be prudent to replace the opposite tyre as a set to maintain balanced handling. Beyond the specific items flagged, the vehicle’s age calls for a comprehensive time‑based service check. Verify the condition of the 12 V auxiliary battery – a load test or voltage reading at idle should confirm it still holds charge, as batteries over five years often lose capacity. Examine the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of looseness, creaking or uneven tyre wear that could indicate worn components. Inspect the brake discs and pads on the front axle for corrosion or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, as fluid degradation can occur with calendar age even when mileage is modest. A full service history with stamps will give confidence that these maintenance points have been addressed and will help the buyer gauge any upcoming costs.