2009 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · SP09 UGT

A clean and uninterrupted MOT record defines this Toyota Yaris, with five successive test entries spanning from September 2022 through August 2025 returning no advisories, no failures, and no recorded defects of any kind. The single failure noted on 2 September 2023 carries no defect detail and was almost certainly a procedural or retest outcome, as the same date also records a pass, indicating the vehicle cleared inspection on the same visit. The most recent test on 21 August 2025 produced another clean pass, confirming that the car continues to meet roadworthiness standards across all tested categories including braking, suspension, steering, tyres, lighting, and exhaust emissions. For a vehicle of this age, an entirely advisory-free record over a four-year window suggests the underlying mechanical condition has remained stable, with no emerging wear patterns flagged by the test station. The overall trajectory is one of consistent roadworthiness rather than decline, which is uncommon for a car now entering its eighteenth year. The recorded mileage of 64,050 miles against a 2009 registration equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 3,768 miles, which sits well below the typical usage rate for a car of this age and likely reflects either a secondary household role, predominantly short urban journeys, or extended periods of inactivity. MOT testing has occurred annually without any multi-year gaps in the documented history, indicating the vehicle has remained on the road and subject to regular scrutiny throughout this period. Mechanically, lower annual mileage of this nature generally preserves major drivetrain components such as the engine, transmission, and clutch, but can simultaneously accelerate degradation of items that suffer from disuse, including brake discs surface corroding prematurely, brake calipers seizing from infrequent operation, and underbody components developing surface oxidation from lack of regular washing after wet weather use. The fact that none of these typical low-mileage concerns have been flagged at test is a positive indicator, though it does not eliminate the possibility of latent issues developing between annual inspections. From a buyer inspection standpoint, the absence of recorded advisories means there is no documented component wear to follow up on, but the specific risks associated with a low-mileage, older vehicle should still be evaluated physically. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as worn suspension bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and bottom arm ball joints are common on Yaris models of this generation and may not have been significant enough to fail an MOT but could still produce audible symptoms. Apply the brakes firmly at low speed to check for any judder or vibration through the pedal, which would indicate front brake disc corrosion or warping likely caused by infrequent use. Check that the handbrake holds the vehicle securely on a moderate incline, as rear brake mechanisms can seize when rarely actuated. Inspect the underside visually for any signs of oil misting around the engine and gearbox seams, and examine the exhaust system for surface rust or hangers that may have deteriorated, as exhaust components are prone to corrosion on older vehicles regardless of mileage. Particular attention should also be paid to the tyres, as the MOT record does not specify whether the same set was fitted at the most recent test, and tyres on a low-mileage car can suffer from age-related sidewall cracking and dry rot even when tread depth remains legal. Examine the sidewalls carefully for any hairline cracks or brittleness, and confirm the DOT date codes are within an acceptable age range. Open the bonnet and check the coolant and brake fluid reservoirs for level and condition, and inspect the battery terminals for any green or white corrosion build-up that would suggest prolonged standing periods. Verify that all dashboard warning lamps illuminate correctly on ignition and extinguish once the engine is running, and ensure the air conditioning system produces cold air, as compressor seals and refrigerant lines can deteriorate with infrequent use. A pre-purchase mechanical assessment by a Toyota specialist or independent garage would be prudent to confirm the condition of timing chain components, clutch operation, and any hidden underbody corrosion, particularly around the rear axle and subframe mounting points, which are areas commonly affected on vehicles kept predominantly outdoors.