2009 Toyota Auris 1.4L Diesel · ST09 OHO

A steady progression of age-related degradation in the steering, suspension, and braking systems defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle, transitioning from completely clean test results between 2018 and 2021 to a cluster of wear-related defects in recent years. During its most recent MOT on 6 October 2025, the vehicle secured a pass, yet the test record reveals multiple active minor defects and advisories concerning perished rubber boots and corrosion. This trend indicates that while the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, several critical underbody components are reaching the end of their service lives and will require imminent mechanical intervention to prevent future test failures. Accumulating approximately 6,270 miles per year to reach its current recorded mileage of 106,586 miles, the vehicle has been subjected to a highly consistent and typical UK driving profile. This steady annual usage is generally preferable to long periods of inactivity, as it keeps mechanical components moving and helps prevent issues like seized braking calipers or dried-out engine seals. However, crossing the 100,000-mile threshold at seventeen years of age means that structural rubber components, hydraulic lines, and suspension dampers have undergone significant duty cycles, making the deterioration of these age-sensitive parts a primary concern rather than a surprise. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the front suspension and steering assembly during a physical inspection and test drive. The 2025 test flagged severely deteriorated dust covers on the offside front anti-roll bar ball joint, the front track rod end ball joints, and the front suspension arm ball joints on both sides. When these protective rubber boots split, they allow road grime and moisture to ingress, rapidly accelerating wear on the internal joints. On a test drive, listen for distinct knocking or clunking noises when travelling over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate excessive play in the anti-roll bar links or worn lower suspension arm bushes. Additionally, feel for any vagueness or pulling in the steering, and check the front and rear coil springs for heavy scaling or fractures, as both front and rear springs were previously flagged for corrosion. The braking system also demands immediate professional evaluation, specifically regarding the hydraulic lines at the rear of the vehicle. The latest MOT noted that the rear brake pipes were corroded and covered in grease or another material, a common tactic that can sometimes mask the true extent of metal degradation, alongside corroded ferrules on both rear brake hoses. During a test drive, press the brake pedal firmly to ensure it feels solid and does not slowly sink to the floor, which could indicate a pressure loss or hydraulic fluid leak from these weakened areas. A visual inspection on a hoist is highly recommended to scrape back any grease on the rear metal pipes and assess whether the corrosion has compromised the structural integrity of the lines, as replacing these corroded pipes and hoses will be necessary to ensure long-term braking safety and to pass subsequent MOT tests.